Ofsted conducted a short inspection of Cheadle Catholic Junior School on 17 July 2019, following its previous judgment of good in June 2015. The inspection confirmed that the school continues to maintain a good quality of education. The leadership team, under the new headteacher Rachel Fender, has made significant improvements since her appointment in May 2019. Pupils are making good progress in reading, writing, and mathematics, with achievement levels above the national average by the end of Year 6. The school provides excellent opportunities for the social, moral, and emotional development of its pupils, emphasizing a commitment to serving their needs.
Pupils express happiness and feel well cared for, knowing that staff are attentive to their concerns. Vulnerable pupils receive timely support, and many enjoy leadership roles such as sports ambassadors and house captains. The school fosters a strong sense of pride among pupils, who appreciate the nurturing environment and the various learning opportunities provided. The emphasis on emotional well-being is a notable strength, with pupils actively participating in nurture groups and valuing the support from the school counselor.
Parents are highly supportive, expressing satisfaction with their children's enjoyment of school and the enriching curriculum. The school is well-integrated into the community, as evidenced by high attendance at events like the pupils' production of Beauty and the Beast. Positive relationships with the local infant school facilitate smooth transitions for pupils, and the school maintains strong connections with the diocese and local authority, enhancing professional development for staff.
Teaching and learning remain good, with evidence of strong practices. Teachers effectively build on pupils' prior knowledge and engage them in meaningful activities. For instance, Year 6 pupils were observed actively participating in dramatizations of scenes from Beauty and the Beast. High expectations for conduct and excellent classroom relationships contribute to a positive learning environment. Teachers utilize technical vocabulary accurately and encourage pupils to articulate their thoughts clearly, fostering deep understanding.
Teaching assistants play a vital role in supporting pupils' learning, particularly for those with special educational needs. The governing body is actively involved in maintaining standards and challenging leaders to pursue further improvements. Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to ensure pupil safety and well-being. Pupils feel secure and are educated about important issues like internet safety and bullying, with a strong belief in the staff's ability to address any concerns.
The inspection focused on the curriculum's effectiveness for disadvantaged pupils, particularly in mathematics. Leaders have adjusted the allocation of pupil premium funding to better support these pupils, resulting in improved progress. The curriculum is broad and well-planned, allowing pupils to engage in various subjects while developing essential skills. Reading is prioritized, with carefully selected texts enhancing comprehension.
Pupils enjoy their studies and benefit from visits and guest speakers that enrich their learning experiences. The curriculum promotes creativity and knowledge of diverse cultures, preparing pupils for life in modern Britain. The school is committed to ensuring that the most able pupils achieve their potential in writing, with ongoing efforts to enhance their performance across subjects. Overall, the inspection highlighted the school's strengths and areas for continued development, particularly in supporting the most able pupils in achieving high standards in their writing.
