Peel Hall Primary School, located in Worsley, Manchester, underwent an inspection on June 4 and 5, 2024, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of Requires Improvement. The quality of education was also rated as Requires Improvement, while behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and early years provision received a Good rating. Leadership and management were found to require improvement as well. The school has made strides since its previous inspection, particularly in enhancing the curriculum for subjects like reading and mathematics. However, many other subjects still lack the necessary design and delivery to ensure optimal learning outcomes for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.
Pupils at Peel Hall Primary School experience a supportive environment where their well-being is prioritized. Staff greet students warmly, fostering a positive atmosphere that contributes to high levels of happiness among the pupils. The school has implemented an ambitious curriculum, but the inconsistency in the design and delivery of various subjects hampers the overall educational experience. While pupils understand the school's rules and routines, their academic achievements do not meet expectations, particularly in subjects that have not been adequately developed.
The school has faced significant changes in leadership and staffing since the last inspection, which has impacted its ability to finalize and implement a cohesive curriculum across all subjects. Although some subjects have effective assessment and monitoring systems in place, these are not uniformly applied throughout the wider curriculum. Consequently, gaps in pupils' knowledge are not consistently identified or addressed, which affects their learning progress.
Reading is a high priority at Peel Hall, with staff trained in a newly implemented phonics programme that begins in the Reception class. This initiative has proven effective, as most pupils become confident readers. The school also provides support for disadvantaged pupils who struggle with reading, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance to improve their skills.
The school promotes positive behaviour and social interactions among pupils, who are well-mannered and respectful. They take pride in contributing to the school and the local community, participating in roles such as pupil governors and environmental initiatives. The school offers a range of extracurricular activities, allowing pupils to engage in sports and other interests.
Governors play an active role in the school's development, working closely with the local authority to ensure the school has the capacity for improvement. The school has made efforts to enhance its processes for identifying the additional needs of pupils, particularly those with SEND, ensuring they receive appropriate support and adaptations to the curriculum.
Despite the positive aspects of the school, there are areas that require attention. The curriculum in some subjects lacks clarity regarding the essential knowledge pupils should acquire and the sequence in which it should be taught. This deficiency limits teachers' ability to facilitate effective learning. Additionally, the school must ensure that staff are adequately equipped to deliver the intended curriculum consistently across all subjects.
Overall, while Peel Hall Primary School demonstrates strengths in pupil well-being, behaviour, and certain aspects of the curriculum, it must address the identified areas for improvement to enhance the educational experience for all its pupils. The commitment to fostering a supportive environment and prioritizing reading is commendable, but a more cohesive and well-implemented curriculum is essential for achieving better academic outcomes.
