St Andrew's CofE Primary School, located on Barton Lane in Eccles, Manchester, recently underwent an inspection by Ofsted, receiving an overall effectiveness rating of Good. The inspection, conducted on May 10 and 11, 2023, highlighted the school's commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a positive learning environment for its pupils.
Pupils at St Andrew's School are reported to thrive, with many expressing happiness and satisfaction in their school experience. The school community is diverse, with a significant number of pupils being new to the country. Despite this, students quickly adapt, make friends, and catch up on any gaps in their knowledge. The school promotes an inclusive atmosphere where every pupil is treated equally, fostering respect and support among peers.
The quality of education at St Andrew's is commendable, with a well-designed curriculum that engages and motivates students. The curriculum is broad and balanced, aligning with national standards, and is tailored to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). As a result, pupils make steady progress and achieve well across various subjects.
Reading is a central focus of the curriculum, with high-quality texts provided to support learning. The school's phonics program is delivered effectively, enabling most children in the early years and key stage 1 to read with fluency and accuracy. However, some pupils with SEND and those at the early stages of learning English may require additional support to catch up with their peers in reading.
St Andrew's School places a strong emphasis on personal development, encouraging pupils to learn about different cultures and faiths. Students are taught to manage their feelings and consider the emotions of others, fostering a compassionate and supportive school community. Leadership roles within the school, such as members of the ethos group, allow pupils to contribute meaningfully to their environment and develop their talents. Behaviour among pupils is generally good, with students focusing on their learning and making the most of the support provided by their teachers. The school has effective systems in place to address any incidents of unkindness, ensuring that pupils feel safe and secure.
The leadership team at St Andrew's has made significant strides since the previous inspection in January 2020. They have overhauled the curriculum and taken the time to understand the unique needs of their pupils. Despite facing challenges, including staffing absences and building repairs, leaders have remained committed to improving the quality of education. The school's governing body, led by Chair Julie Roebuck, supports the headteacher, Joanne Bladen-Kay, in maintaining high standards and addressing any issues that arise. The positive impact of their efforts is evident in the improving outcomes for pupils.
While the inspection report praises the school's achievements, it also identifies areas for improvement. Specifically, the curriculum in some areas of the early years is underdeveloped, which may hinder some children's learning. Leaders are encouraged to finalize their curriculum planning to ensure that all aspects of the early years curriculum are effectively addressed. Additionally, some pupils with SEND and those learning English may not be catching up in reading as quickly as they should. The school is urged to provide targeted support to help these pupils bridge the gap in their learning.
In conclusion, St Andrew's CofE Primary School stands out as a nurturing and effective educational institution. With a strong focus on academic achievement, personal development, and a commitment to inclusivity, the school is well-positioned to continue its positive trajectory. As leaders work to address the identified areas for improvement, the future looks bright for the pupils of St Andrew's School.
