Holy Cross and All Saints RC Primary School in Eccles, Manchester, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 17 and 18, 2023. The school is characterized by a joyful and nurturing learning environment where pupils feel safe and happy. Students express high regard for their teachers, identifying them as the best aspect of their school experience. The clear expectations set by school leaders regarding behavior contribute to a respectful atmosphere, with pupils adhering to the established golden rules and demonstrating kindness towards one another. Instances of bullying are addressed promptly and effectively, fostering a positive social environment where students enjoy playing together during breaks.
The school promotes a culture of eagerness to learn, equipping pupils with the resilience needed to tackle challenges. Staff support students in recognizing their emotions, and those acting as emotional ambassadors are eager to assist their peers. Pupils are encouraged to take on responsibilities, such as serving as school chaplains, house captains, or council members. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports and crafts, and emphasizes the importance of environmental stewardship, as evidenced by student participation in community litter-picking events.
Leaders have developed a broad and ambitious curriculum that spans from Nursery to Year 6, carefully considering the essential knowledge pupils need to acquire. This structured approach allows for a solid foundation of learning, enabling students to build on their previous knowledge effectively. In most subjects, teachers utilize appropriate resources to deliver the curriculum skillfully, regularly assessing pupils' understanding and addressing any gaps in their learning. However, in a few subjects where the curriculum has been introduced more recently, some teachers are still adapting to the best methods for delivering content, which can occasionally hinder student learning.
Reading is a priority at the school, with pupils showing a strong appreciation for literature. The curriculum includes a diverse range of texts, and students in key stage two are enthusiastic readers. Staff receive training to effectively deliver the phonics program, ensuring that pupils at risk of falling behind receive the necessary support. The books provided to students align with their phonetic knowledge, resulting in nearly all pupils becoming confident readers by the end of Year 2.
The school effectively identifies and supports pupils with additional needs, ensuring that they achieve well across various subjects. Clear behavioral structures and routines help maintain focus and engagement during lessons, minimizing disruptions to learning. Leaders prepare pupils for life in modern Britain by teaching them about different religions and encouraging participation in democratic processes from an early age. The curriculum is enriched through trips and visits that enhance pupils' understanding of the world.
Leadership at Holy Cross and All Saints is strong, with a clear vision for pupil achievement and a collaborative approach among staff to foster a caring culture. Parents and carers express satisfaction with the care their children receive, and efforts have been made to reduce staff workload, which has been positively received by the teaching staff. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks to pupil safety. Overall, the school continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience, with areas for improvement identified in the delivery of certain subjects.
