St Margaret’s CofE Primary School in Whalley Range, Manchester, has been recognized for its overall effectiveness, receiving a 'Good' rating in its recent inspection. The school demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education, with particular strengths in personal development and early years provision, both rated as 'Outstanding.' The school fosters an inclusive environment where pupils and their families feel proud to be part of the community. Pupils express happiness and safety within the school, highlighting the supportive relationships they have with staff, who are quick to address any issues of unkindness or bullying.
Leaders at St Margaret’s maintain high expectations for pupil behavior, which is reflected in the positive conduct observed throughout the school. Pupils are respectful and engage enthusiastically in a variety of activities, particularly during lunchtime. The school is dedicated to ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and those who speak English as an additional language, receive the support they need to thrive. The curriculum has been carefully reviewed and updated to meet the diverse needs of the student body, ensuring relevance and ambition.
The early years curriculum is particularly effective, providing children with numerous opportunities to develop essential skills in language, communication, and mathematics. As a result, children who enter the school with limited English quickly catch up with their peers by the end of the Reception year. Subject teachers are well-supported by knowledgeable leaders, and they employ a variety of teaching strategies to engage pupils. The learning environments in both Nursery and Reception are thoughtfully designed to promote exploration and enthusiasm for learning.
While most teachers effectively assess pupil understanding, there are areas where this could be improved. In some subjects, teachers do not consistently check for understanding, which can lead to gaps in knowledge and misconceptions. Addressing this issue is essential for ensuring that all pupils achieve their full potential. Reading is prioritized across the school, with strong habits established in the early years and key stage one. Pupils enjoy reading and have access to a diverse range of high-quality literature that reflects their varied backgrounds.
The school’s safeguarding measures are robust, with leaders and staff well-trained to identify and respond to potential risks. Pupils are educated about safety, including online safety, ensuring they are well-informed about how to protect themselves. The personal development program is exceptionally well-designed, helping pupils understand and celebrate diversity while fostering confidence in expressing their opinions. Opportunities for leadership and responsibility are abundant, contributing to the overall development of pupils.
Governors demonstrate a strong understanding of the school’s strengths and areas for improvement, actively supporting and challenging school leaders. The well-being of staff is considered in decision-making, and professional development opportunities are valued by the staff. Overall, St Margaret’s CofE Primary School is a vibrant and effective learning environment that prioritizes the needs of its pupils while striving for continuous improvement in all areas of education.
