St Peter’s C of E Primary School in Swinton, Manchester, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 24 and 25, 2023. The school fosters a welcoming environment where pupils are happy and form strong friendships. New students are integrated smoothly, and the supportive nature of the staff is evident, as they provide clear explanations and assistance to those who need it. The school prioritizes the safety and well-being of its pupils, promoting respect for diversity and effectively addressing any instances of bullying.
Pupil behavior is commendable, with students displaying politeness and eagerness to learn. They quickly engage in tasks during lessons, and the playground is lively with children enjoying newly installed play equipment. The staff is committed to ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, achieve success. The curriculum is designed to be broad and enriching, with a focus on both academic and extracurricular activities. Pupils participate in various sports and musical opportunities, and they have the chance to explore local areas of interest, enhancing their understanding of the community.
The curriculum is well-structured, allowing pupils to make connections between new and previously learned material. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and employ effective teaching strategies that engage students. Early years education is particularly effective, with a focus on developing speech, vocabulary, and numeracy skills. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in identifying gaps in pupils' knowledge across subjects. Some teachers may not consistently assess understanding over a series of lessons, which can lead to gaps in essential knowledge.
Recent changes to the phonics curriculum have positively impacted reading fluency among pupils, including those with special educational needs and disadvantaged backgrounds. The school emphasizes the importance of reading, and pupils express enjoyment in their reading activities both at school and at home. Leaders and governors are dedicated to supporting pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they have access to the full curriculum and extracurricular activities.
In the early years, children adapt quickly and engage well with their teachers. Staff provide effective support to those who may struggle with concentration, and children benefit from well-planned activities that utilize both indoor and outdoor learning spaces. The school places a high priority on extracurricular programs, with pupils participating in local sports competitions and community events, which enrich their educational experience and prepare them for life beyond primary school.
Pupils learn about important social issues through lessons and assemblies, fostering a sense of responsibility and citizenship. Leaders are mindful of staff workload and strive to support their well-being, which is appreciated by the staff. The inclusive ethos of the school is a point of pride for governors, who actively contribute their expertise to support the school.
The safeguarding arrangements at St Peter’s are effective, with staff well-trained to recognize and address potential risks to pupils. Leaders prioritize pupil safety and ensure that students learn how to protect themselves, including online safety. Overall, while the school excels in many areas, it is encouraged to enhance assessment practices to better identify and address gaps in pupils' knowledge, ensuring that all students are fully prepared for their future learning.
