The Deans Primary School in Swinton, Manchester, has received an outstanding rating in its recent inspection conducted on July 2 and 3, 2024. This marks a continuation of its previous outstanding status, as the school has not been inspected under section five of the Education Act since May 2013. The school is known for its exceptional quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision.
Pupils at The Deans Primary School express a strong enthusiasm for attending school, benefiting from a rich array of opportunities that contribute to their overall development. The staff's deep understanding of the pupils and their families fosters an environment where students thrive, feeling both happy and secure. The school maintains high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. This ambitious approach is complemented by a high-quality curriculum and a nurturing focus on well-being, resulting in exceptional academic achievements.
Behavior among pupils is exemplary, both in classrooms and throughout the school. They learn to appreciate diversity and treat one another with respect and care. Leadership roles, such as inclusion and diversity ambassadors, allow pupils to contribute meaningfully to the school community. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities that extend beyond the academic curriculum, including unique sports and outdoor experiences that enhance pupils' learning.
The curriculum at The Deans Primary School is broad and ambitious, starting from the early years. Each subject is meticulously designed to ensure that pupils acquire essential knowledge by the end of Year 6. Staff regularly assess pupils' understanding and quickly address any gaps in learning, providing tailored support to ensure all pupils, including those with SEND, are well-prepared for their next educational steps. Teachers demonstrate excellent subject knowledge and deliver lessons with clarity, engaging pupils in their learning.
The school prides itself on fostering a language-rich environment that supports communication skills from the early years. Children thrive in this setting, enjoying access to a variety of carefully selected texts that promote a love of reading. The phonics program is effectively implemented, ensuring that pupils receive appropriate reading materials that match their learning needs. As a result, pupils become fluent and confident readers.
The school has established effective systems for identifying and supporting pupils with SEND, ensuring that their academic and social needs are met. The atmosphere within the school is harmonious, with clear boundaries set by staff. When pupils struggle with self-regulation, they receive the necessary support to correct their behavior. The school encourages independence and self-direction, particularly during outdoor play, helping pupils develop into well-rounded individuals by the end of Year 6.
Attendance is highly valued, and the school collaborates closely with families to improve attendance rates when necessary. Most pupils maintain excellent attendance records. The school has developed a comprehensive program for personal development, teaching pupils about online safety, health, and celebrating diversity. A wide range of clubs and activities enriches pupils' experiences, ensuring that all students, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds, have opportunities to participate.
Governors play an active role in supporting and challenging the school, utilizing their expertise to make informed decisions that consider staff workload. Staff appreciate the high-quality training and support they receive, which enables them to perform their roles effectively. Parents and carers express unanimous praise for the school, highlighting the open communication and responsiveness of the staff to their concerns.
The safeguarding arrangements at The Deans Primary School are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The inspection team evaluated various aspects of the school, including curriculum delivery, pupil behavior, and safeguarding practices, concluding that the school continues to provide an outstanding educational experience for its pupils.
