Chapel Street Primary School in Levenshulme, Manchester, has been rated as a good school following its inspection in June 2019. The school has made significant improvements since its previous inspection, where it was deemed to require improvement. The leadership team has effectively managed staffing changes and has made well-considered appointments that have positively impacted the quality of teaching. The school has established a culture of high expectations, leading to consistent improvements in teaching and learning across various subjects.
The teaching of phonics in the early years and key stage one is particularly strong, enabling younger pupils to develop essential reading skills quickly. Leaders have implemented a nurturing atmosphere that fosters strong relationships between staff and pupils, ensuring that students feel safe and respected. The school provides effective support for pupils who are new to learning English, helping them gain the necessary skills to access the curriculum. Additionally, pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are well-supported, allowing them to achieve good outcomes.
Pupils make good progress from their starting points in a wide range of subjects, although recent improvements in writing are still being embedded, leading to some inconsistencies in progress. Middle leaders demonstrate enthusiasm and good subject knowledge, but many are new to their roles and are still developing their effectiveness. In the early years, children make strong progress due to early identification of their needs and timely support. However, there are opportunities for teachers to better utilize the learning environment to promote literacy and numeracy skills.
The school effectively uses pupil premium funding to support disadvantaged pupils, resulting in strong progress for these students. Pupils enjoy school, with attendance rates close to the national average, and they exhibit good behavior and positive attitudes towards learning. The leadership team has established effective systems to promote good attendance, which is gradually changing parental attitudes towards taking holidays during term time.
The quality of teaching, learning, and assessment has significantly improved since the last inspection. Teachers have high expectations for behavior and conduct, creating an atmosphere of mutual respect. They possess good subject knowledge and plan engaging lessons that challenge pupils and deepen their understanding. The teaching of writing has been a focus for improvement, with teachers receiving targeted training to enhance their skills. Mathematics is taught well, with lessons designed to consolidate prior learning and address misconceptions.
Pupils' progress in reading, writing, and mathematics has improved, with many achieving expected standards by the end of key stage one and two. The school has prioritized reading, promoting a love for literature among pupils. The curriculum is broad and balanced, providing pupils with a strong sense of identity and understanding of their community. The school actively promotes pupils' spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development, ensuring they are well-prepared for life in modern Britain.
Overall, Chapel Street Primary School has made commendable progress since its last inspection, with effective leadership and management contributing to a positive learning environment. The school is well-placed to continue its journey of improvement, with a focus on embedding recent changes and enhancing the quality of teaching across all subjects. The strong relationships between staff, pupils, and parents further support the school's mission to provide a high-quality education for all its students.
