St Martin’s CofE Junior Infant and Nursery School in Oldham has recently undergone an inspection, with the evaluation highlighting several strengths and areas for improvement. The school is characterized by its compassionate and warm relationships between pupils and staff, fostering an environment where students feel respected and celebrated for their individuality. The school’s values, encapsulated in the acronym ‘SHINE’, are integral to its nurturing atmosphere, and pupils express a strong sense of pride in their school community.
The quality of education at St Martin’s is rated as good, with pupils demonstrating politeness and charisma. From the early years, children are engaged in their learning, and the school emphasizes academic success for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Most pupils achieve well, benefiting from a curriculum designed to build knowledge progressively from the Nursery Year through to Year 6. Subject leadership is well established, and staff are equipped with the necessary information to deliver the curriculum effectively.
The school has developed a personal development program that exceeds expectations, teaching pupils to become responsible citizens. A wide range of extracurricular activities, clubs, and experiences are offered, promoting pupils’ talents and interests while prioritizing their well-being. The school’s approach to reading is particularly commendable, with pupils enjoying a diverse selection of texts and receiving strong support in developing their reading skills.
Despite these strengths, the inspection identified areas for improvement. In some subjects, the implementation of the curriculum is not as precise as intended, which can hinder pupils from achieving the depth of knowledge they are capable of. Additionally, while vocabulary development is mapped out, there are instances where pupils are not adequately supported in enhancing their spoken language skills. This can limit their ability to articulate and extend their learning effectively.
The school has effective strategies for identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they are included in all aspects of school life. Attendance is a high priority, and the school has successfully reduced the number of persistently absent pupils through strong support for families. Behaviour throughout the school is generally calm and orderly, with older pupils often modeling positive behaviour for younger students.
Governance at St Martin’s is strong, with governors actively supporting and challenging the school’s leadership. Staff report positively on the support they receive in managing their workload, contributing to a positive working environment. The school’s commitment to safeguarding is evident, with effective arrangements in place to protect pupils.
In summary, St Martin’s CofE Junior Infant and Nursery School provides a nurturing and supportive educational environment where pupils thrive academically and personally. While the school has established a solid foundation for learning and development, attention to the precise implementation of the curriculum and vocabulary development will enhance the educational experience for all pupils. The school’s dedication to fostering a positive self-image and preparing pupils for life in modern Britain is commendable, and ongoing efforts to address identified areas for improvement will further strengthen its overall effectiveness.
