St Kentigern’s RC Primary School in Manchester has received an outstanding rating following its inspection in September 2017. The headteacher is recognized as an inspirational leader who has significantly improved the school since the last inspection, supported by a dedicated team of senior and middle leaders. The cohesive leadership team is committed to ensuring that pupils succeed and enjoy their education. The curriculum is well-organized and resourced, leading to high levels of engagement and exceptional achievement across various subjects, particularly in the arts and music.
The early years provision is also rated outstanding, with strong leadership driving improvements. Teaching quality is exceptional, with teachers demonstrating strong subject knowledge and engaging pupils in exciting lessons. Pupils build on prior learning effectively, achieving well above average standards in reading, writing, and mathematics by the end of key stages one and two. However, while progress in reading at key stage two is average, some pupils struggle with reading comprehension, particularly in understanding texts.
The school provides a caring and secure environment for learning, with excellent pupil behavior and positive attitudes towards learning. Governors play a crucial role in supporting and challenging school leaders, and they are proud of the school’s achievements. Parents express high levels of support for the school, recognizing the strong leadership and improvements made.
To further enhance performance, the school aims to build on recent strategies to improve reading achievements, particularly for pupils who find reading challenging. This includes focusing on developing comprehension skills and promoting a love of reading through high-quality resources.
The leadership and management of the school are outstanding, with a clear vision linked to pupil success and well-being. Senior leaders have effectively improved teaching quality and pupil outcomes since the last inspection. The curriculum is broad and imaginative, enriched by themed days, trips, and after-school clubs, which captivate pupils and enhance their learning experiences.
Pupils’ spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development is central to the school’s ethos, fostering a caring environment where diversity is celebrated. The provision for pupils with special educational needs is well-organized, ensuring they make significant progress. Parents are kept informed about their children’s progress, and the school effectively uses pupil premium funding to support disadvantaged pupils.
The school’s physical education and sports funding are utilized effectively, with a talented sports coach enhancing pupils’ skills and participation in various sports. British values are embedded throughout the curriculum, promoting tolerance, empathy, and respect among pupils.
Governors are actively involved in the school’s self-evaluation and improvement planning, providing effective support and challenge. They have a clear understanding of the school’s strengths and areas for development, ensuring that finances are used effectively to support learning.
The safeguarding arrangements are robust, prioritizing pupils’ safety and welfare. Staff receive regular training, and the school maintains thorough records to ensure all staff are suitable to work with children. The school’s commitment to providing a safe and nurturing environment is evident in its practices and policies.
Overall, St Kentigern’s RC Primary School demonstrates excellence in leadership, teaching, and pupil outcomes, creating a positive and enriching educational experience for all its pupils.
