St Philip’s RC Primary School in Salford, Greater Manchester, has received an outstanding rating in its recent inspection conducted from September 28 to 29, 2023. This marks a continuation of its previous outstanding status, which has been maintained since its last inspection in November 2007. The school is recognized for its exceptional quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision.
Pupils at St Philip’s express that the school is a welcoming environment where they thrive both academically and personally. They take pride in their achievements and enjoy celebrating each other’s successes. The school fosters a culture of high expectations, ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, achieve excellent outcomes. The curriculum is meticulously designed to meet the diverse learning needs of students, flowing seamlessly from early years to Year 6. Each subject is given equal importance, and the school emphasizes a deep understanding of topics, allowing pupils to build solid foundations for future learning.
The behavior of pupils is exemplary, characterized by politeness, courtesy, and respect for one another. This positive conduct is attributed to a clear understanding of the school’s rules and routines, creating an environment conducive to learning. Pupils are engaged and focused during lessons, demonstrating resilience when faced with challenges. They take pride in their work, ensuring it meets high standards.
St Philip’s offers a wide range of enrichment experiences, including extracurricular activities and leadership opportunities, which pupils embrace enthusiastically. They view roles such as house captains as honors and are committed to fostering a harmonious school environment. The school’s curriculum also promotes personal development, equipping pupils with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate modern British society. This includes spiritual development through various initiatives and community engagement activities.
The teaching staff at St Philip’s are highly trained and demonstrate exceptional subject knowledge. They engage in ongoing professional development and design learning activities that effectively deliver new knowledge to pupils. The school places a strong emphasis on reading, ensuring that pupils develop fluency and accuracy from an early age. Phonics instruction begins in the Reception Year, with staff expertly guiding pupils through the learning of new sounds and matching reading materials to their knowledge.
The school’s assessment systems are well-structured, allowing teachers to identify and address any misconceptions promptly. This rigorous approach to assessment ensures that all pupils, including those with special educational needs, receive the support they need to succeed. The school prioritizes the well-being of both pupils and staff, fostering a supportive environment where everyone can thrive.
Governors, leaders, and staff collaborate effectively to maintain high educational standards. The school actively engages with parents and carers, providing them with guidance to support their children’s learning at home. The safeguarding arrangements are robust, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
Overall, St Philip’s RC Primary School exemplifies excellence in education, demonstrating a commitment to high standards, personal development, and community engagement. The school’s outstanding rating reflects its dedication to providing a nurturing and effective learning environment for all its pupils.
