St Walburga's Catholic Primary School, A Voluntary Academy
Victoria Park, Shipley, BD18 4RLOpen in maps (opens in a new tab)
St Walburga's Catholic Primary School, A Voluntary Academy is a primary school in Shipley for ages 3 to 11. It is one of the 227 schools in Bradford. It ranks 3rd of 12 primary schools in Shipley. Its latest Ofsted rating is Good, from an inspection in May 2012.
Ofsted inspection
Inspected 14 May 2012, report published 6 July 2012
- Overall effectiveness
- Good
- Leadership and management
- Good
What Ofsted said
From the inspection on 12 November 2024
The school's Catholic ethos is central to all that it has to offer. Pupils are polite, respectful and well mannered. They are patient and kind to each other and adults. There is a positive and supportive culture, where pupils achieve well. Pupils enjoy coming to school and attend well. They talk positively about 'fun lessons' and 'caring adults'. There is an inclusive environment, where all pupils regardless of their needs access a high-quality education in a safe and friendly environment. The school prepares pupils well for their next stage in education. Pupils respond well to the school's high expectations for learning and behaviour. In lessons, pupils are eager to learn. They listen carefully and respond quickly to teachers. They enjoy talking to adults and hold engaging conversations. During playtime, pupils play sensibly together. Older pupils enjoy supporting younger pupils as 'buddies'. There is a strong focus on pupils' well-being and personal growth. The school promotes mental health awareness. Pupils recognise the importance of looking after their mental well-being and supporting others. Pupils are encouraged to help others through a number of leadership responsibilities including well-being ambassadors and 'Mini Vinnies'. Pupils know who to talk to if they are worried.
What the school should improve
- The school's approach to teaching handwriting is not as effective as other aspects of English. This means that some pupils do not have the knowledge to be able to form their letters accurately, which may impact how effectively they convey their ideas and understanding in written tasks. The school should continue to review and improve the approach to teaching handwriting so that pupils write accurately and fluently.
- Some parents feel that communication methods are too varied. This means that some parents do not feel fully informed about key updates and activities that happen in school. The school should continue to review their communication systems so that all parents feel fully involved and informed about their child's education.
Exam results
SATs results (key stage 2), 2024/25
30 pupils took the tests
Pupil numbers and mix
225 pupils on roll, with places for 236
Schools near St Walburga's Catholic Primary School, A Voluntary Academy
| School | Distance | Ofsted | Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wycliffe CofE Primary School | 0.3 miles | Ofsted: Good | 49% met the expected standard |
| Saltaire Primary School | 0.4 miles | Ofsted: Good | 68% met the expected standard |
| Shipley CofE Primary School | 0.5 miles | Ofsted: Good | 43% met the expected standard |
| Baildon Glen Primary School | 0.8 miles | Ofsted judgements: Requires improvement to good | 29% met the expected standard |
| High Crags Primary Leadership Academy | 0.8 miles | Ofsted: Good | 51% met the expected standard |
School details
- School type
- Academy converter
- Sector
- Academy
- Trust
- BLESSED CHRISTOPHER WHARTON CATHOLIC ACADEMY TRUST
- Age range
- 3 to 11
- Gender
- Mixed
- Religious character
- Roman Catholic
- Nursery classes
- Yes
- Headteacher
- Mrs Elizabeth Fearnley
- Phone
- 01274531102
- Address
- Victoria Park, Shipley, BD18 4RL
- Local authority
- Bradford
- URN
- 142947
School details from Get Information about Schools, 17 September 2026. Ofsted outcomes published to 31 August 2026. Exam results for 2024/25 from the Department for Education. Pupil mix from the school census, 2025/26.