Claremont Primary School, located in Moss Side, Manchester, has recently undergone an inspection on the 4th and 5th of October 2023, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has demonstrated a commitment to providing a high-quality education, with positive evaluations across various aspects including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision, all rated as good.
Pupils at Claremont Primary School experience a nurturing environment where they feel safe, happy, and secure. The supportive atmosphere fostered by the staff encourages students to express their concerns and promotes a strong sense of belonging. The school sets high expectations for student achievement, and many pupils are meeting these standards, demonstrating enthusiasm for their learning. The curriculum is designed to instill aspirations for the future, with opportunities for students to engage in specialist classes at a local university.
Behavior among pupils is commendable, characterized by calmness and respect for one another. The school promotes an understanding of diverse cultures and faiths, which is celebrated through various events and activities. Pupils are encouraged to explore their local community and beyond, participating in a range of extracurricular activities that help them develop their talents and interests, such as music, chess competitions, and theatrical performances.
The curriculum at Claremont Primary School is ambitious and well-structured, allowing pupils to build a comprehensive body of knowledge over time. However, the school acknowledges that some students may join mid-year, leading to potential gaps in their learning. To address this, the school provides ample opportunities for pupils to revisit previous learning, ensuring that newcomers do not miss essential knowledge. The school also has specialized staff to support pupils who are new to English.
While pupils generally achieve well, recent data indicated that progress and attainment at the end of Years 2 and 6 were below the national average, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The school has taken swift action to address these issues, revising aspects of the curriculum and ensuring regular attendance, which has led to improved progress for current pupils.
Reading is prioritized at Claremont Primary School, with significant improvements made to the reading curriculum. Staff training has enhanced the teaching of phonics, and early years pupils receive effective support to develop their reading skills. The school fosters a love of reading through a diverse selection of books and encourages staff to model reading behaviors.
Pupils are engaged in their learning, with activities designed to make lessons memorable. However, there are instances where the effectiveness of learning delivery could be improved, leading to some pupils not retaining knowledge as well as they could. Regular assessments are conducted to monitor understanding, but in a few subjects, the use of assessment information could be more effective in addressing misconceptions.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are quickly identified and provided with the necessary support to thrive alongside their peers. The school collaborates with external agencies to meet the diverse needs of its students. Pupils demonstrate focus and cooperation in lessons, contributing positively to the learning environment.
The school values parental involvement and maintains regular communication with families, providing guidance on supporting their children's education. The governing body is knowledgeable and effective in its role, supporting the school in its continuous improvement efforts. Overall, Claremont Primary School is committed to fostering a positive educational experience for all its pupils, ensuring they are well-prepared for their future endeavors.
