St Clare’s RC Primary School in Blackley, Manchester, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on April 16 and 17, 2024. The school provides a nurturing environment where pupils thrive and quickly settle into their learning from the early years. The happiness and enjoyment of attending school are evident among the students, who are highly engaged and focused during lessons. The school sets ambitious goals for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, fostering a culture of high expectations.
Pupils demonstrate excellent behavior, contributing to a vibrant classroom atmosphere filled with activity. Their conduct during social times reflects the school’s values, showcasing politeness, respect, and kindness towards peers and staff. The school offers a variety of extra-curricular activities, such as choir, athletics, and chess, which pupils enthusiastically participate in. Unique experiences, like observing animals from a visiting farm, enrich the learning environment, and initiatives like ‘Mini Clare’s’ allow students to contribute to school improvements, such as enhancing the prayer garden.
The curriculum at St Clare’s is broad and engaging, designed thoughtfully to incorporate essential knowledge and skills. From the early years onward, the curriculum is structured to build a solid foundation for pupils. Teachers effectively deliver the curriculum, utilizing their strong subject knowledge to create language-rich activities that enhance learning. Regular opportunities for pupils to recap prior learning help them tackle more complex concepts later. However, in a few subjects, the assessment methods do not fully capture the specific knowledge taught, which can hinder teachers' ability to identify and build on pupils' understanding.
Reading is prioritized across the school, with staff receiving comprehensive training to implement the phonics program effectively. Early readers quickly learn letter sounds and enjoy books that match their reading level. Pupils needing additional support are promptly identified and receive the necessary help to catch up. The school’s resources, including a new library for younger pupils, promote good reading habits, and older students express enthusiasm for their favorite books and authors.
The school is proactive in identifying pupils who require extra support, adapting the curriculum to meet individual learning needs. This approach ensures that pupils with SEND have equal access to learning opportunities and achieve well. A clear behavior policy is consistently followed by staff, establishing clear expectations for pupils. The school maintains positive attendance rates, supported by effective systems to encourage regular attendance.
St Clare’s provides a wide range of experiences that contribute to pupils’ overall development. School trips to museums enhance cultural understanding and classroom learning. Pupils also learn about physical and mental health, with activities promoting respect for diverse cultures and safety awareness. Staff express pride in their work at the school, feeling well-supported in managing their workload and developing their expertise. Governors actively contribute to the school’s ongoing development, ensuring a commitment to high standards.
The safeguarding arrangements at St Clare’s are effective, creating a safe environment for all pupils. To further improve, the school should refine its assessment strategies in certain subjects to ensure that teachers can more accurately identify and build on pupils’ prior knowledge. Overall, St Clare’s RC Primary School continues to provide a high-quality education, fostering a positive and enriching learning environment for its pupils.
