Whitehill Primary School, located in Heaton Norris, Stockport, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 8 and 9, 2024. The school provides a safe and happy environment for its pupils, who are enthusiastic about attending school and engaging in their lessons. Positive relationships between staff and students are evident, with pupils feeling comfortable discussing any concerns they may have with trusted adults in the school.
The school maintains high expectations for pupil learning, and most students achieve well. Classrooms are described as calm and purposeful, with pupils eager to participate and follow instructions. The school emphasizes outdoor learning, which fosters teamwork, environmental awareness, and enhances both mental and physical health. Additionally, a variety of extracurricular activities, including singing, coding, drama, and dodgeball, enrich the pupils' experiences. Lunchtimes are lively, with opportunities for sports and creative activities.
Whitehill Primary School has developed an ambitious curriculum that caters to all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. This focus begins in the nursery, where communication and language skills are prioritized. While most pupils perform well academically, there are some discrepancies in knowledge retention across different subjects. The school has identified the essential knowledge pupils should acquire, and teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and enthusiasm. However, some recently updated curriculums are not yet fully implemented, leading to gaps in subject vocabulary for some pupils.
In most subjects, teachers effectively assess pupils' understanding and address misconceptions before introducing new material. However, in a few subjects, assessment strategies are not utilized effectively, resulting in some pupils struggling to connect prior knowledge with new concepts. The school is encouraged to ensure that changes to the curriculum are implemented thoroughly to enhance pupils' understanding over time.
Reading instruction is a priority at Whitehill Primary School, with a phonics program that begins in the early years. Staff deliver this program effectively, ensuring that reading materials align with pupils' phonics knowledge. Regular assessments help identify less confident readers, who receive the necessary support to improve. Most pupils develop a love for reading and engage with a diverse range of books.
The school has robust systems in place to identify and support pupils with special educational needs. Teachers receive training to adapt their teaching methods, ensuring that most pupils with SEND learn effectively. Throughout the school, pupils exhibit positive attitudes toward learning, showing respect for one another and contributing to a harmonious atmosphere.
Whitehill Primary School offers a comprehensive curriculum that helps pupils understand the wider world. Pupils learn about online safety, healthy relationships, and respect for diversity. The school organizes various trips to enhance learning across different subjects. The governing body is well-informed and ambitious for the school community, providing effective support and challenge to school leaders. Parents hold the school in high regard, appreciating the opportunities for communication with staff. Staff members feel valued and proud to work at the school.
The safeguarding arrangements at Whitehill Primary School are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. The inspection concluded that while the school is performing well, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the consistent implementation of updated curriculums and assessment strategies. Overall, Whitehill Primary School continues to provide a good educational experience for its pupils, fostering a positive learning environment and encouraging personal growth.
