St Gabriel’s Church of England Primary School in Middleton, Manchester, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 26 and 27, 2024. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils feel safe and enjoy attending. The core values of courage, respect, friendship, love, and forgiveness are evident in the daily interactions among students, promoting a culture of consideration and support. Pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, demonstrate good behavior and a strong eagerness to learn. They understand the importance of their education and engage actively in lessons, listening attentively and participating enthusiastically.
The school is dedicated to the success of all its pupils, maintaining high expectations for achievement. Most students perform well academically, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds. The behavior of pupils during social times is commendable, as they play harmoniously and respect one another, regardless of their backgrounds. This respectful atmosphere contributes to a supportive school community where pupils trust that their concerns will be addressed effectively by staff.
St Gabriel’s is committed to the broader personal development of its pupils, offering a wide range of extracurricular activities, including trips and experiences that enhance their learning. Pupils appreciate the opportunities to engage fully in school life, which enriches their educational experience. The curriculum is ambitious and tailored to meet the interests and aspirations of all pupils, including those with special educational needs. Staff have thoughtfully designed the curriculum to ensure that essential knowledge is taught in a logical sequence, starting from the Reception Year and preparing children for future learning.
Teachers at the school are knowledgeable and generally deliver the curriculum effectively. They model the vocabulary expected of pupils, which empowers students to express themselves confidently in various contexts. Assessment practices are well-utilized in most subjects, allowing teachers to identify gaps in knowledge and address them promptly. Pupils frequently revisit prior learning, which helps solidify their understanding over time.
However, in a few subjects, the assessment strategies employed by teachers are not as effective as they could be, which may lead to some gaps in pupils’ knowledge going unnoticed. The school recognizes this and aims to equip teachers with the necessary tools to address any misconceptions swiftly.
Reading is prioritized throughout the school, with a strong emphasis on developing communication and language skills from an early age. Staff deliver a phonics program with precision, ensuring that pupils read books that align with their learning. This approach enables pupils to apply their phonics knowledge effectively, fostering a love for reading and preparing them well for future academic challenges.
The school collaborates closely with families and external agencies to address barriers to attendance, resulting in improved attendance rates for many pupils. Beyond academics, pupils engage in learning about diverse families, cultures, and faiths, preparing them for life in modern Britain. They take pride in their charitable efforts and community support initiatives.
Governors are actively involved in the school, providing appropriate challenge and support to enhance the quality of education. The school values its staff, considering their workload in decision-making processes, which contributes to a positive working environment. Safeguarding measures are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils.
Overall, St Gabriel’s Church of England Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong commitment to the personal and academic development of its pupils. The school is well-positioned to address the areas for improvement identified during the inspection, ensuring ongoing success for all students.
