Bradford primary praised as 'vibrant and successful' after strong Ofsted report

Bradford’s Co-op Academy Penny Oaks praised by Ofsted for its ambitious curriculum, inclusive culture, rapid pupil progress and support for SEND children.

Bradford’s Co-op Academy Penny Oaks has been praised by Ofsted for its ambitious curriculum, inclusive culture, rapid pupil progress and support for SEND children <i>(Image: Supplied)</i>

(Image: Supplied)

Bradford pupils are thriving at a primary praised by inspectors for its ambitious curriculum, inclusive culture and rapid progress.

Co-op Academy Penny Oaks on Upper Nidd Street achieved a “Strong Standard” in every area at its latest inspection.

Michelle Khambhaita, headteacher at Co-op Academy Penny Oaks, said: "We are incredibly proud of this report and, most importantly, of the children, families and staff who have made it possible.

"What makes this recognition particularly special is that it reflects the things we see every day at Penny Oaks.

"Our pupils are kind and proud of what they know.

"They arrive with different experiences, backgrounds and starting points, and our job is to make sure every child feels that they belong here and has the opportunity to thrive."

Ofsted inspectors called the school a “vibrant and successful” place where every pupil feels included and valued.

They also praised its curriculum and pupils’ rapid progress.

Pupils told inspectors they valued a community built on kindness, respect and care.

The report also praised hands-on activities beyond the classroom, from growing vegetables and cooking to educational and residential trips.

Inspectors highlighted the school’s “50 things to experience before you leave Penny Oaks” programme for building pupils’ confidence, resilience and understanding of the wider world.

Inspectors praised the school’s support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities and its work helping disadvantaged children overcome barriers to learning.

Parents called the school a “welcoming, nurturing community where children thrive”.

Ms Khambhaita said: "The recognition of a Strong Standard across every area is a fantastic achievement for our whole school community.

"It is a testament to the hard work of our pupils and staff, and to the support of our families and governors.

"We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved together and excited about continuing to build on it."

Co-op Academy Penny Oaks joined the Co-op Academies Trust in 2023.

Chris Tomlinson, chief executive of Co-op Academies Trust, said: “Penny Oaks is a brilliant example of what can happen when a school community is united around a clear ambition for every child.

“We are delighted to celebrate this achievement with the pupils, staff, families, governors and wider Penny Oaks community.

"They should be enormously proud of what they have achieved."