Plymouth Grove Primary School, located in Chorlton-on-Medlock, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 8 and 9, 2023. The school is committed to fostering a culture of high expectations and ambition for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Leaders and staff emphasize the importance of good behavior and learning, and pupils strive to meet these expectations, achieving well across the curriculum.
Students demonstrate a strong sense of responsibility and respect for others, showing empathy and learning to stand against unkindness and injustice. The supportive environment created by staff ensures that pupils feel cared for and safe, with effective measures in place to address any incidents of bullying. New students, particularly those from different countries, receive the necessary support to integrate smoothly into the school community. As a result, pupils are happy to attend school daily.
The school offers a wide range of opportunities that enrich pupils' experiences. Students engage in learning various musical instruments, participate in the school parliament, and celebrate diverse cultural festivals. They also enjoy educational trips to art galleries, historical sites, and the beach, alongside extracurricular activities such as music clubs and outdoor learning in woodland areas.
Plymouth Grove Primary School provides a rich and broad curriculum accessible to all pupils, including those with special educational needs. The curriculum is thoughtfully designed to build knowledge progressively from early years to Year 6. A significant number of pupils speak English as an additional language, and the school effectively prioritizes their personal and social development. Staff training ensures that new arrivals receive the support needed to develop language skills and feel included in the learning community.
Teachers possess strong subject knowledge and generally explain concepts clearly. Most teachers successfully use assessment strategies to gauge pupils' understanding. However, in some subjects, there are instances where teachers do not adequately check pupils' knowledge before introducing new material, leading to gaps in understanding for some students.
Leaders quickly and accurately identify the additional needs of pupils with special educational needs, collaborating closely with parents to ensure effective support. These pupils are fully included in all aspects of school life. The school is in the process of implementing a new phonics program, with early years children learning phonics from their first day. While staff have received some training, inconsistencies in delivery have been noted, affecting the phonics learning of a few pupils.
Pupils express enthusiasm for reading and have access to a diverse range of texts in the school library. Support for weaker readers is effective, enabling them to catch up and read fluently. The school promotes a shared understanding of behavior, leading to a positive learning environment with minimal disruption.
Leaders extend learning beyond the classroom, providing pupils with experiences that prepare them for life in modern Britain. They learn about democracy, health, and relationships in an age-appropriate manner. Staff morale is high, with leaders considering workload and ensuring it remains manageable. Governors maintain a clear overview of the school's strengths and areas for development.
The safeguarding arrangements at Plymouth Grove Primary School are effective, with a vigilant culture established by leaders. Staff receive up-to-date training and know how to raise concerns regarding pupil welfare. Pupils are educated on safety, including online safety, and know whom to approach with concerns.
To improve, the school should ensure that all staff deliver the phonics program consistently and effectively, enabling all pupils to acquire phonics knowledge promptly. Additionally, leaders should ensure that assessment strategies are used effectively across all subjects to prevent gaps in learning.
