Milnrow Parish Church of England Primary School, located in Rochdale, Lancashire, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on March 2 and 3, 2023. The school is characterized by a nurturing environment where pupils are eager to learn and feel safe. Students describe the school as kind and caring, highlighting the positive relationships they have with their peers and staff. The school promotes high expectations for behavior and learning, ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, are motivated to do their best. The staff's commitment to fairness and swift action against bullying fosters a supportive atmosphere.
The curriculum at Milnrow is broad, balanced, and ambitious, with leaders carefully considering the knowledge pupils should acquire and the sequence in which it is taught. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and adapt their teaching methods to meet the needs of their students. This approach has resulted in good achievement levels across the school, including in the early years. However, there are instances where teachers do not consistently check pupils' understanding before introducing new concepts, leading to some gaps in knowledge.
Reading is prioritized within the school, with initiatives in place to foster a love of reading among pupils. Parents are encouraged to participate in reading activities, and the early years environment is designed to enhance communication and language skills. Phonics instruction begins in Reception, and pupils are provided with reading materials that align with their phonetic knowledge. Support is readily available for those who require additional help.
Pupils exhibit good behavior and a strong sense of belonging, contributing positively to the school community. They engage in charitable activities and enjoy various extracurricular trips and events. The school encourages leadership opportunities through councils that allow pupils to teach their peers about important topics. The governing body plays an active role in supporting and challenging school leaders, ensuring that the well-being of both pupils and staff is prioritized.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with a comprehensive training program for staff to ensure the safety of all pupils. The curriculum includes elements of safeguarding, helping pupils understand how to protect themselves in various situations. The school collaborates with families and external professionals to support vulnerable students.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. In some subjects, teachers need to provide more time for pupils to consolidate their understanding before moving on to new material. This will help to ensure that all pupils retain essential knowledge and skills. Overall, Milnrow Parish Church of England Primary School is a good school that effectively supports the academic and personal development of its pupils, preparing them well for their future endeavors. The commitment of the staff and leadership to continuous improvement is evident, and the school is well-positioned to address the areas identified for development.
