Warren Wood Primary School, located in Stockport, Cheshire, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on May 21 and 22, 2024. The school has maintained this level of effectiveness since its previous inspection in December 2018. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision have all been assessed as good.
Pupils at Warren Wood Primary School enjoy their time at school, which is reflected in the positive relationships they build with staff and peers. The school’s motto emphasizes care, courtesy, and consideration, fostering a respectful environment. Students are confident and articulate, taking pride in their contributions to the school and the wider community. The school has high aspirations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Recent improvements to the curriculum have led to better academic outcomes, particularly in reading and writing, where pupils meet expected standards in line with national averages. However, there are challenges in mathematics, where a significant number of pupils did not meet the expected standards, largely due to the impact of a previously weaker curriculum and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The curriculum at Warren Wood is ambitious and designed to meet the diverse learning needs of all pupils. Early years provision is particularly strong, with children settling into school life quickly and developing a love for learning through engaging activities. The curriculum is structured to build on prior knowledge, although there are areas where the school needs to enhance its approach to help pupils retain and recall what they have learned over time. In some subjects, the strategies for assessing pupils' knowledge at the end of units are not yet fully effective, which can hinder the reinforcement of learning.
Teachers at the school effectively use assessment strategies to monitor pupil progress and address misconceptions promptly. The school has made significant efforts to promote a love of reading from an early age, with a strong phonics program in place. Older pupils are encouraged to read widely and express enthusiasm for literature. The school also identifies the needs of pupils with special educational needs early on, ensuring they receive appropriate support throughout their education.
Pupil behavior is commendable, with students rarely disrupting lessons and adhering to school routines. The school has established effective procedures for managing attendance and punctuality, resulting in high levels of regular attendance. The school’s program for personal development is robust, equipping pupils with knowledge about online safety and providing support for their social and emotional well-being. Positive relationships are emphasized, supported by initiatives such as restorative ambassadors.
Staff at Warren Wood enjoy their work environment and appreciate the support they receive to fulfill their roles effectively. The school considers staff workload when implementing new initiatives, contributing to a positive workplace culture. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils.
To improve further, the school should focus on enhancing opportunities for pupils to recap and recall previous learning in certain subjects. Additionally, the assessment strategies need to be refined to better identify gaps in knowledge and ensure that pupils retain what they have been taught. Overall, Warren Wood Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive learning environment for all its pupils.
