All Saints Primary School in Gorton, Manchester, received a positive inspection report, highlighting its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on November 8 and 9, 2022, and the school has maintained this grade since its previous inspection in October 2021. The school serves a diverse population of 228 pupils aged 3 to 11 and is governed by a single governing body following a recent federation with another primary school.
Pupils at All Saints Primary School express happiness and satisfaction with their school experience. They report having many friends and find learning enjoyable. The school environment is described as safe and supportive, with staff fostering positive relationships with students. Lunchtime activities, such as dancing and playing swing ball, contribute to a vibrant school culture. The leadership team has high expectations for pupil achievement, and most students perform well across various subjects. The school offers a range of extracurricular opportunities, including gardening clubs, guest speakers, and competitive sports, which enhance the educational experience.
The school promotes a culture of kindness and respect, with clear expectations for pupil behavior. Instances of low-level disruption are rare, and staff effectively manage any issues that arise. The school has established procedures for addressing conflicts among pupils, ensuring that relationships can be repaired when necessary. Incidents of bullying are dealt with promptly and effectively by school leaders.
The curriculum at All Saints Primary School is ambitious and inclusive, catering for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Leaders have carefully designed the curriculum to ensure that knowledge builds progressively from the early years through to Year 6. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and effectively check for pupil understanding, making connections between new and previously learned material. This approach helps pupils to develop their knowledge over time.
Reading is a priority at the school, with a strong emphasis on phonics from the early years. The school has invested in a new phonics program, which has improved early reading instruction. However, there are concerns regarding the effectiveness of additional support for pupils struggling with phonics. Staff have not received sufficient training to deliver catch-up sessions effectively, and leaders have not fully utilized assessment data to identify gaps in pupils' phonics knowledge.
The school fosters a love of reading, with a well-stocked library area that encourages pupils to explore a variety of texts. This initiative enhances the curriculum and allows pupils to extend their learning through diverse reading materials. In the early years, children quickly adapt to school life and form positive relationships with their peers. Staff support language development through engaging interactions, and the early years curriculum prepares children well for future learning.
Leaders are proactive in identifying and addressing the additional needs of pupils, including those with special educational needs. They collaborate with external agencies to provide necessary support. The school also offers various initiatives that promote personal development, such as mental health awareness programs, teaching pupils about healthy relationships, and fostering an understanding of democracy and equality. Pupils demonstrate respect and tolerance for one another's differences.
Pupils generally behave well in lessons and throughout the school, engaging actively in their learning. The leadership team effectively supports staff well-being and workload management, fostering a collaborative environment where teachers can plan together. The governing body fulfills its responsibilities effectively, contributing to the overall success of the school.
Safeguarding arrangements at All Saints Primary School are robust. Leaders have a strong understanding of current safeguarding issues, and staff are well-trained in procedures for identifying and reporting concerns. The school educates pupils on safety, including online safety, ensuring they are equipped to protect themselves.
While the school excels in many areas, there is a need for improvement in supporting pupils who struggle with reading. Leaders must ensure that staff receive the necessary training to provide targeted support effectively. Overall, All Saints Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a positive learning environment for all its pupils.
