St Patrick’s RC Primary School in Collyhurst, Manchester, underwent an inspection on 16 and 17 November 2021, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has made significant progress since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. Pupils at St Patrick’s enjoy attending school and demonstrate positive attitudes towards their learning. They are well-informed about equality issues related to race, gender, and disability, and they celebrate the diverse culture of their school and local community.
The school environment is safe, and pupils feel secure knowing they can approach trusted adults with any concerns. Instances of bullying are addressed promptly and effectively by staff, contributing to a calm and purposeful atmosphere conducive to learning. High expectations for behavior and achievement are evident, fostering a sense of responsibility among pupils, who actively participate in initiatives such as the junior leadership team and the ambassadors for change group.
The curriculum is designed to develop pupils into responsible citizens, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary for productive lives. Leaders have implemented a well-structured curriculum that engages all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The logical organization of learning helps pupils retain knowledge and develop resilience in reading and mathematics. The phonics program is particularly effective, with early years and key stage one pupils demonstrating strong phonics skills, while older pupils confidently perform mental calculations.
Reading is a central focus of the curriculum, with a well-sequenced phonics program that encourages daily reading. Pupils in key stage two enjoy a variety of literature, and those needing additional support are provided with effective assistance. The curriculum is well-planned and implemented across most subjects, although some areas require further development in assessment practices to ensure teachers have a clear understanding of pupils' learning progress.
Pupils exhibit positive behavior and a strong enthusiasm for learning, with minimal disruption in classrooms. Leaders have established various activities to promote personal development, including raising awareness of international issues like climate change and engaging in fundraising for charitable causes. Although many extracurricular activities were suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic, they are gradually resuming, with pupils participating in sports and cultural events.
The school has effective systems in place to identify pupils with special educational needs early, ensuring that the curriculum is accessible and tailored to individual needs. Staff members are well-trained and maintain strong relationships with parents and specialists, facilitating progress for pupils with SEND. High staff morale is evident, with teachers appreciating the training and support they receive, and leaders being mindful of their well-being and workload.
Governors fulfill their responsibilities diligently, holding school leaders accountable and staying informed about the school’s priorities and pupil learning outcomes. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of safety and regular training for staff to stay updated on safeguarding practices. Pupils are educated on how to keep themselves safe in various situations, including online safety.
To further improve, the school should focus on enhancing assessment practices in certain subjects to ensure teachers have a precise understanding of pupils' knowledge and learning gaps. This will enable more effective support for pupils to enhance their learning outcomes. Overall, St Patrick’s RC Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive learning environment for all its pupils.
