St Charles' RC Primary School in Swinton, Manchester, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 14 and 15, 2024. The school fosters an environment where pupils are encouraged to become the best versions of themselves, a sentiment echoed by both students and their parents. The school provides numerous opportunities for students to build confidence, such as delivering class assemblies from an early age.
Pupils take pride in their behavior, which is evident in their positive conduct throughout the school. They acknowledge that mistakes are part of learning, and teachers support them in making better choices when needed. The enthusiasm for learning is palpable, with students eager to participate in lessons. The school has raised its expectations for pupil achievement and has recently enhanced its curriculum, resulting in students typically learning and achieving well.
Students enjoy contributing to their school community, understanding that even small actions can make a significant difference. For example, they help clear chairs after assemblies and older pupils volunteer to play with younger children during break times. These interactions foster warm relationships among pupils of all ages, contributing to a happy school atmosphere.
The school offers an engaging and ambitious curriculum, catering for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Classroom learning is enriched by special days filled with various activities, including trips that bring learning to life. The school has made effective strides in improving the curriculum in certain subjects, addressing gaps in older pupils' knowledge. However, there are still some subjects where the identification of essential knowledge is ongoing, which can hinder teachers' ability to emphasize key information.
Staff members possess a strong understanding of their subjects and effectively communicate new concepts to pupils. They are quick to address any misconceptions that arise during lessons. The school promotes a love of reading, with events designed to encourage reading among pupils. Older students serve as reading role models for younger peers, fostering a culture of reading throughout the school.
In the early years, children are introduced to rhymes and songs, learning about letters and sounds, which prepares them for phonics instruction in Reception. Well-trained staff deliver the phonics program effectively, ensuring that pupils are on track with their reading. Those at risk of falling behind receive targeted support to help them catch up, leading to the development of confident and fluent readers.
The school has recently reviewed its support for pupils with special educational needs, implementing rigorous systems to identify additional needs. However, some information provided to staff about these pupils could be improved, occasionally hindering effective support.
Pupils demonstrate good attendance and engage positively with staff and peers. The school emphasizes the importance of wider development, offering clubs and opportunities for older pupils to take on leadership roles within the school community. The governing body has seen new appointments that enhance its expertise, and governors are well-informed about the school’s operations, working closely with staff to refine educational quality.
The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Moving forward, the school aims to clarify essential knowledge in certain subjects to enhance curriculum delivery and improve support for pupils with special educational needs. Overall, St Charles' RC Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
