Castleton Primary School, located in Rochdale, Lancashire, underwent an inspection on November 15 and 16, 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as requiring improvement, with specific areas such as the quality of education, leadership and management, and early years provision also receiving similar ratings. However, the school demonstrated good performance in behavior and attitudes, as well as personal development.
Pupils at Castleton Primary School are valued and their well-being is prioritized. They are educated about their rights, which are respected throughout the school environment. Students communicate kindly and respectfully with one another, and younger children actively engage with visitors, showcasing their confidence and happiness. The school maintains high expectations for student achievement, but these expectations are not consistently met, particularly in subjects with published results. The early years curriculum lacks sufficient development, hindering children's readiness for Year 1. Although the curriculum for older students is well-designed, depth of learning is often lacking, preventing the establishment of a robust knowledge base over time.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, encouraging participation through initiatives like the golden ticket program, which promotes specific activities such as mindfulness sessions. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for life in modern Britain, incorporating recognition days and cultural celebrations. While the school has created an ambitious curriculum for students in Years 1 to 6, some subjects contain excessive content, limiting opportunities for deeper learning and retention of knowledge.
Teachers conduct assessments to gauge student understanding and address misconceptions, which informs future teaching strategies. The school emphasizes phonics instruction, ensuring that children quickly learn to recognize sounds and letters, which supports their reading development. Pupils enjoy reading and appreciate the diverse range of texts available to them. However, the strong foundation in reading is not mirrored in other areas of early learning, as the school has not clearly defined the knowledge children should acquire, leading to fragmented learning experiences.
Students with special educational needs and disabilities are quickly identified, and the school seeks external support when necessary. The school fosters an inclusive environment where all students feel valued. Many pupils take on leadership roles, such as mental health ambassadors and school councillors, contributing to a culture that values student voice. The school promotes physical and mental wellness through various initiatives, addressing relevant issues to enhance student well-being.
Despite the positive aspects, the school faces challenges with attendance, as some students do not attend regularly. The school is actively analyzing attendance data and implementing measures to support families and improve attendance rates. Overall, pupils exhibit polite and considerate behavior, contributing to a positive school atmosphere.
The governing body demonstrates effective oversight, with members possessing the necessary knowledge and expertise to hold the school accountable. Parents and carers express high levels of satisfaction with the school, appreciating the support provided to their children. The safeguarding arrangements in place are deemed effective, ensuring a safe environment for all students.
To improve, the school must refine the curriculum to focus on essential knowledge, ensuring that students build a solid foundation for future learning. Additionally, the early years curriculum needs clearer objectives to enhance children's readiness for subsequent educational stages. By addressing these areas, Castleton Primary School can work towards achieving a higher standard of educational effectiveness.