St Mary’s Roman Catholic Primary School in Middleton, Manchester, was inspected on May 23 and 24, 2023, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education for its pupils, who arrive eager to learn and engage in various activities beyond the standard curriculum. Opportunities such as a debate club and music lessons enrich the students' educational experience. The leadership team has set high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that these aspirations are reflected throughout the school community.
The school has made significant efforts to address learning gaps that arose during the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in current pupils achieving well. Early years children are well-prepared for their transition to Year 1. Pupils exhibit positive behavior in lessons, showing pride in their school and adhering to established rules. They demonstrate respect for one another and feel safe, knowing they can seek help if needed. The school effectively manages instances of bullying, ensuring a supportive environment for all students.
The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, catering for all pupils, including those with special educational needs. Leaders have carefully designed the curriculum to ensure a logical progression of knowledge and skills across various subjects. Clear end points are established, allowing for measurable achievement. Many subjects show rapid improvement in pupil achievement due to these curriculum developments, although some areas still require finalization to enhance overall performance.
Teachers generally deliver the curriculum effectively, utilizing appropriate activities that facilitate learning. They possess strong subject knowledge and employ assessment systems to gauge pupil understanding. Opportunities for revisiting prior learning are provided, reinforcing knowledge retention. A culture of reading is fostered within the school, with pupils enjoying access to a well-stocked library that encourages exploration of diverse literature. Early years children engage with songs, rhymes, and stories, enhancing their listening skills and vocabulary.
The phonics program has been improved, with staff receiving training to ensure consistent delivery. Pupils receive effective support to help them keep pace with their peers, resulting in confident and fluent readers. The school has established systems to identify and assess pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they receive necessary support. However, in a few cases, the adaptations required for these pupils' learning have not been clearly defined.
Pupils treat each other kindly, contributing to a positive learning atmosphere. In the nursery, staff emphasize the importance of school rules and routines, helping children adjust quickly to school life. The pastoral care provided is robust, with staff prioritizing pupils' physical and mental health. Pupils actively support one another, demonstrating a strong understanding of equality and celebrating diversity.
Governors, leaders, and staff share a unified vision for pupil achievement, recognizing the school's strengths and areas for improvement. They take proactive measures to manage workloads and well-being, with staff appreciating the support they receive. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to recognize signs of potential harm and respond appropriately. Pupils learn about safety in various contexts, contributing to a strong safeguarding culture within the school.
To further improve, leaders should finalize curriculum developments in certain subjects to enhance pupil achievement. Additionally, staff training should be provided to better adapt curriculum delivery for pupils with special educational needs, ensuring all students can achieve their full potential. Overall, St Mary’s Roman Catholic Primary School is committed to fostering a supportive and enriching educational environment for all its pupils.
