Irk Valley Community School, located in Lower Crumpsall, Manchester, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 4 and 5, 2023. The school fosters a welcoming and diverse community where pupils take pride in their identity and learn the significance of equality and respect. Pupil ambassadors play a vital role in creating a friendly atmosphere by greeting visitors warmly. The school environment is described as joyful, contributing positively to the overall experience of attending.
The leadership at Irk Valley Community School sets high expectations for both behavior and academic achievement. Parents and carers appreciate the support provided to their children, particularly those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). This support enables all pupils to achieve commendable results. The school prioritizes the safety and well-being of its students, ensuring they know whom to approach for help. Generally, pupils exhibit kindness and respect towards one another, and any incidents of bullying are addressed promptly by the leadership.
Learning experiences at the school are enriched through various trips and activities, such as visits to the zoo and performances in local theaters. The leadership ensures that all pupils have opportunities to participate in these enriching experiences. The curriculum is designed with the needs of pupils at its core, providing a high-quality education that is ambitious and comprehensive. This curriculum builds progressively from the early years through to Year 6, allowing pupils to learn and achieve more than in previous years.
While the majority of teachers are well-equipped to deliver the curriculum effectively, there are a few subjects where teachers' knowledge is still developing. This can sometimes hinder the design of learning experiences that focus on essential content. Leaders have implemented systems to identify additional needs early, starting in the Nursery Year, which helps staff support children with SEND effectively. Most pupils with SEND succeed alongside their peers, with some receiving specialized support tailored to their individual needs.
Reading is a key focus at Irk Valley Community School, with strong foundations laid in the early years. The phonics program in Reception and Key Stage 1 supports most pupils in becoming accurate and fluent readers. However, some pupils, particularly in Key Stage 2, require additional practice to catch up, as they have not had sufficient opportunities to match letters to sounds. This gap can affect their reading fluency and overall achievement in other subjects.
The school emphasizes the importance of respecting each other's rights and encourages pupils to reflect on their behavior's impact on others. Pupils demonstrate good conduct in lessons and during social times, with minimal disruption to learning. They engage positively during breaks and lunchtime, often taking on leadership roles in sports and peer mentoring.
Staff at Irk Valley Community School express pride in their work environment, noting that leaders consider their workload and well-being. The governing body is committed to supporting the school, providing both challenge and assistance to enhance the quality of education. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a culture of vigilance and support established among staff to protect pupils from harm.
To further improve, the school should focus on enhancing teachers' subject knowledge in certain foundation subjects and ensure that pupils who are behind in reading receive adequate opportunities for phonics practice. This will help them catch up and succeed across the curriculum. Overall, Irk Valley Community School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
