St Bernard’s RC Primary School in Manchester has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on December 7 and 8, 2022. The school is characterized by a caring, inclusive, and supportive environment where pupils feel safe and enjoy learning alongside their peers. The leadership team has established high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. This has positively influenced pupils' behavior and attitudes towards learning, fostering a culture of striving to meet the established standards.
The school community is built on kindness and consideration for individual differences, allowing pupils to express their concerns freely. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they do occur, they are addressed effectively. The school offers a variety of trips and visits that enhance pupils' understanding of the wider world, with notable enthusiasm expressed by students regarding visits to the Imperial War Museum and Central Library in Manchester. Additionally, there has been a significant investment in sports, with pupils excited about lunchtime coaching and opportunities to visit local football stadiums.
Leaders and governors possess a thorough understanding of the school’s strengths and areas for improvement. The headteacher has focused on developing subject leadership, leading to improvements in subjects like reading and mathematics. The curriculum from Nursery to Year 6 is well-structured, aligning with national standards and tailored to meet the needs of disadvantaged pupils. Subject leaders have identified essential knowledge building blocks, ensuring that learning is organized logically and effectively implemented by teachers.
Teachers generally excel in identifying and addressing misconceptions in pupils' learning. However, in a few subjects, there is a need for improvement in checking pupils' retention of knowledge, which can hinder their ability to build on prior learning. Reading has been prioritized, with teachers well-trained in phonics instruction. The school employs a dynamic approach to grouping pupils based on their phonics needs, ensuring that reading materials match their current knowledge, which fosters confidence and fluency.
The school is proactive in identifying and supporting pupils with additional needs, ensuring they have access to the same ambitious curriculum as their peers. Early years staff effectively support children in settling into school life, emphasizing language and communication skills. The school promotes a culture of resilience, with clear rules and consistent application, resulting in minimal disruption to learning.
Pupils' personal development is a high priority, with a focus on emotional and mental well-being. They learn about equality, inclusion, and the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The school offers various enrichment activities and clubs, contributing to a well-rounded educational experience.
Governors and leaders are aware of the rapid changes within the school and are mindful of staff workload, taking steps to support their well-being. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance and proactive measures in place to protect pupils. Staff are knowledgeable about local risks and work closely with external agencies to ensure the safety of all students.
In summary, St Bernard’s RC Primary School continues to provide a good education, with effective leadership, a supportive environment, and a commitment to the personal and academic development of all pupils. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all teachers consistently check pupils' understanding and revisit key knowledge to enhance long-term retention.
