Ravensbury Community School, located in Clayton, Manchester, has maintained its outstanding status following an ungraded inspection conducted on June 5 and 6, 2024. The inspection revealed that while the school continues to provide a high-quality education, there are indications that a graded inspection might yield a different assessment. The school is committed to ensuring the best outcomes for its pupils, fostering an environment where students arrive eager to learn and are greeted warmly by staff who recognize their individual needs.
Pupils at Ravensbury demonstrate positive attitudes towards learning, contributing to a respectful and polite school culture. The school has implemented a broad and balanced curriculum that supports academic, social, and emotional development. Many students achieve well across various subjects, although some do not meet the school's high expectations. The school is actively refining its curriculum to enhance learning outcomes for all pupils.
The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including trips and workshops that enrich the educational experience. These activities help students connect their learning to real-world contexts, such as science workshops and visits to local attractions. Pupils also take on various responsibilities, such as house captains and eco-councillors, which fosters a sense of community and encourages them to contribute positively to society.
Ravensbury has prioritized early reading, with a well-structured phonics program in place. Staff are well-trained to support pupils in developing their reading skills, ensuring that those who struggle receive the necessary assistance. The school has also made significant efforts to support pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, collaborating with parents and external agencies to provide tailored support.
Despite the school's strengths, there are areas for improvement. The 2023 data indicated that the percentage of pupils meeting expected standards in reading and mathematics at the end of Year 6 was below the national average. This was attributed to disruptions in education caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected the learning trajectory of this cohort. The school is aware of these challenges and is working to address them by refining its curriculum and teaching strategies.
Teachers generally check for understanding during lessons, but there are instances where they do not effectively use assessment information to adapt their teaching. This can hinder some pupils from closing gaps in their learning. The school recognizes the need to enhance the use of assessment data to inform instructional practices.
The school has a strong commitment to safeguarding, with effective arrangements in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all pupils. The governing body provides robust support and accountability, and staff feel valued and heard regarding their workload and opinions.
Overall, Ravensbury Community School continues to provide a nurturing and aspirational environment for its pupils. The school is dedicated to continuous improvement, focusing on refining its curriculum and teaching practices to ensure that all students achieve their full potential. The next inspection will be a graded one, which will provide further insights into the school's progress and areas for development.
