St Cuthbert’s RC Primary School in Withington, Manchester, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on April 9 and 10, 2024. The school is characterized by a nurturing environment where pupils feel valued and supported by staff, fostering a sense of happiness and well-being among students. The school maintains high expectations for academic and social standards, and many pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, meet these expectations and achieve commendable results.
The behavior of pupils is exemplary, with clear expectations set from the early years. Children learn to behave appropriately and show attentiveness during lessons, demonstrating a keen desire to learn. Politeness and respect are evident throughout the school, with pupils exhibiting good manners and kindness towards one another and adults. The school promotes a culture of mutual respect, which contributes to a positive learning atmosphere.
Beyond academics, St Cuthbert’s offers a variety of experiences and activities that enrich pupils' learning. Older students participate in residential trips to enhance their teamwork skills, while others engage in visits to historical sites to broaden their understanding of the world. Pupils express that the school is inclusive and welcoming to all.
The curriculum at St Cuthbert’s is aspirational, outlining essential knowledge for pupils from Nursery to Year 6. Most pupils make positive progress and are well-prepared for the next stage of their education by the end of Year 6. The school has effectively identified curriculum content in most subjects, aiding pupils in building a comprehensive knowledge base. However, in a few subjects, the curriculum mapping lacks specificity, leading to some disconnection in learning for certain pupils.
Teachers generally deliver the curriculum effectively, particularly in teaching subject-specific vocabulary. They routinely assess pupils' understanding and adapt lessons to address any gaps in knowledge. This responsive teaching approach ensures that pupils receive constructive feedback to enhance their learning.
The school has established effective procedures for identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs. It collaborates with external professionals to provide tailored support, including therapeutic services for those with complex needs. St Cuthbert’s also fosters a love of reading through various initiatives, such as library visits and poetry performances, resulting in many pupils becoming confident and fluent readers by Year 6.
In the early years, children acquire foundational reading skills through a well-implemented phonics program. Staff are trained to deliver this program effectively, ensuring that pupils who struggle with reading receive timely support to fill any gaps in their knowledge.
Pupils exhibit positive attitudes towards learning and take pride in their work. The school prioritizes attendance and actively works with families to address barriers to regular attendance, successfully improving overall attendance rates.
St Cuthbert’s prepares pupils for life in modern Britain by teaching them about fundamental British values and promoting respect for diverse beliefs and rights. Pupils learn to stay safe, including online safety, and take on leadership roles within the school community. The school also emphasizes the importance of mental and physical health through various extracurricular activities.
Governors are well-informed and effectively fulfill their responsibilities, while staff express high levels of satisfaction regarding the support and trust they receive from the school leadership. The school is mindful of staff workload and well-being, providing dedicated time for staff to implement new initiatives.
The safeguarding arrangements at St Cuthbert’s are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. While the school is performing well, it is encouraged to enhance curriculum clarity in a few subjects to ensure all pupils can build a secure and interconnected body of knowledge.
