Shawclough Community Primary School in Rochdale, Lancashire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 17 and 18, 2023. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils are happy and feel safe. They enjoy strong relationships with staff and peers, promoting kindness and respect for one another's differences. The school has effective measures in place to address bullying, ensuring that any incidents are dealt with promptly and supportively.
The leadership team and teachers maintain high expectations for pupil behavior and academic achievement. Pupils are engaged in their learning and take pride in earning badges for demonstrating the school's six drivers of learning, which encourages them to become independent and reflective learners. The school emphasizes the importance of health and safety, with staff readily available to support pupils with any concerns.
Shawclough Community Primary School offers a broad and balanced curriculum that reflects the aspirations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Subject leaders have carefully structured the curriculum to enable pupils to build their knowledge progressively from early years through to Year 6. However, there are a few subjects where the foundational knowledge has not been clearly defined, which can hinder teachers' ability to effectively assess pupil learning.
Teachers at the school demonstrate strong subject knowledge, allowing them to explain concepts clearly and check for understanding before introducing new material. They employ various techniques to help pupils retain prior learning, facilitating a solid knowledge base. Reading is prioritized across the school, with older pupils expressing enthusiasm for the books they read. Early years pupils begin phonics instruction immediately, using books that align with their phonetic knowledge. Recent initiatives have been implemented to assist pupils who fall behind in reading, although some staff occasionally struggle with correct pronunciation, which can affect pupils' decoding skills.
The nursery class provides a supportive environment where children quickly adapt and develop their vocabulary. The school effectively identifies pupils with special educational needs, ensuring that teachers receive the necessary information to support these students. The specially resourced provision for pupils with autism allows them to access the same ambitious curriculum as their peers, tailored to their individual needs.
Pupil behavior is commendable, with students displaying politeness and respect towards adults and each other. The atmosphere in classrooms is calm and conducive to learning, and pupils navigate social times sensibly. The school promotes understanding of various faiths and cultures, instilling British values such as democracy and tolerance. Older pupils develop leadership skills by supporting younger students, such as assisting with reading.
Leaders and governors possess a thorough understanding of the school’s strengths and areas for improvement. They work collaboratively to address challenges while being mindful of staff workload and well-being. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks. Strong relationships with external agencies ensure that pupils receive the necessary support.
In summary, Shawclough Community Primary School is a good school that provides a supportive and engaging learning environment. While the curriculum is generally well-structured, there are areas for improvement in specific subjects and early reading instruction. The school’s commitment to pupil well-being, safety, and academic achievement is evident, making it a positive place for children to learn and grow.
