Alkrington Primary School, located in Middleton, Manchester, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 28 and 29, 2023. The school provides a nurturing environment where pupils feel happy and safe. The relationships between staff and students are characterized by warmth and respect, fostering a supportive atmosphere for both academic and social development. Staff members maintain high expectations for all pupils, which encourages them to work diligently and achieve commendable results. The behavior of pupils is generally polite and considerate, and they are confident in reporting any instances of bullying, knowing that staff will address these issues promptly and fairly.
The school has developed a variety of opportunities aimed at enhancing pupils' learning experiences and preparing them to be active members of society. Pupils are taught essential life skills, such as cooking and proper use of cutlery, and are encouraged to contribute positively to their community. The partnerships established between leaders, staff, parents, and carers are instrumental in engaging pupils in the school's offerings. The school provides a range of extracurricular activities in sports, arts, and culture, with the annual dance festival being a notable highlight that showcases both pupils and teachers.
A strong emphasis is placed on reading, which is prioritized throughout the school. Pupils have access to high-quality books, which aids in developing their reading fluency. They are encouraged to explore a variety of texts and share their reading successes. The introduction of reading buddies for younger pupils and trips to the local library for first library cards further supports this initiative. Recent changes to the phonics teaching approach have ensured that teachers are well-equipped to help early years pupils recognize sounds in words, which is crucial for their reading and spelling development. Older pupils who struggle with reading receive additional support to help them catch up.
Leaders have also revised the curriculums in several subjects to identify key knowledge that pupils should acquire and the appropriate timing for this learning. This structured approach allows pupils to build on their existing knowledge and make connections with new concepts. However, there is a need for leaders to more closely monitor the implementation of these new curriculums to ensure that they are being delivered effectively. This oversight will help determine whether teachers require further guidance and whether pupils are achieving their learning objectives.
Teachers present new information clearly and generally check pupils' understanding effectively. They address misconceptions promptly, although some subjects still require further development in assessing pupils' retention of knowledge. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are quickly identified, and teachers adapt activities to ensure these pupils can access the curriculum successfully.
Pupils are aware of their rights to learn and the importance of respecting teachers' rights to teach. Early years children are taught to focus on tasks and follow instructions, contributing to a calm classroom environment conducive to learning. Attendance rates are generally good, but some disadvantaged pupils are absent too frequently, which hinders their learning opportunities.
The school prioritizes the broader development of pupils, promoting personal growth through various initiatives. Pupils are taught about mutual respect and social responsibility, with every student expected to contribute to the school and the wider community. The eco-council is an example of pupils taking initiative to address issues such as food waste.
Staff members feel valued and supported, with leaders considering their workload when implementing changes. Opportunities for professional development are appreciated by staff, including those new to the profession. The safeguarding arrangements at Alkrington Primary School are effective, with prompt identification of issues and appropriate support provided to pupils. Staff are well-informed about safeguarding responsibilities and the risks pupils may face.
In summary, Alkrington Primary School continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing a good education for its pupils. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in monitoring curriculum delivery and addressing attendance issues among disadvantaged pupils, the overall environment and support systems in place contribute positively to the learning experience. The school’s focus on personal development, community engagement, and high academic standards positions it well for continued success.
