Located on St Anne's Road in Denton, Manchester, St Anne's Primary School has recently reaffirmed its status as a good school following an inspection on March 29 and 30, 2023. The school, which caters to children aged 4 to 11, has been praised for its nurturing environment, strong leadership, and commitment to academic excellence.
Pupils at St Anne's Primary School express a genuine love for their school, highlighting the trust and rapport they share with their teachers. The staff's dedication to student welfare is evident, as they prioritize the well-being of every child. This supportive atmosphere fosters a sense of security, allowing students to thrive both academically and socially. One pupil encapsulated the sentiment of many by stating, I love my school.
The school's leadership sets high expectations for both behavior and academic achievement. Pupils are well aware of the standards expected of them, and their conduct is described as impeccable. This strong sense of discipline contributes to a positive learning environment where students are eager to participate and engage in lessons.
St Anne's Primary School offers a broad and ambitious curriculum that has been carefully reviewed to ensure it meets the needs of all pupils. The school excels in core subjects such as English, mathematics, and science, where learning builds effectively from year to year. Teachers are confident in their delivery, ensuring that pupils grasp essential concepts before progressing to new material. This structured approach has resulted in consistently strong outcomes for students by the end of Year 6.
The teaching of reading is another notable strength of the school. From the outset of the Reception Year, phonics is taught effectively, with staff regularly assessing pupils' progress and providing additional support where necessary. This commitment to literacy ensures that students become confident readers early in their educational journey.
Beyond academics, St Anne's Primary School offers a wealth of extracurricular activities that help develop pupils' character and interests. Students have enjoyed enriching experiences such as visits to the theatre, museums, and even the Houses of Parliament. The school encourages older pupils to take on leadership roles, such as acting as buddies for younger students, fostering a sense of community and responsibility.
The school places a strong emphasis on personal development, with a robust personal, social, and health education (PSHE) program. Pupils learn about important British values, including democracy, and participate in various clubs that cater to diverse interests, from chess to gardening. The importance of singing and sports is also highlighted, contributing to a well-rounded education.
The well-being of staff is a priority for the school's leadership, who have taken steps to ensure that workloads remain manageable. This supportive environment has resulted in high morale among staff, who are deeply committed to the school and its pupils.
St Anne's Primary School has established effective safeguarding arrangements, ensuring that pupils feel safe and supported. Staff are well-trained to recognize signs that a pupil may need additional help, and the school's strong culture of safeguarding is evident in its practices.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas identified for improvement. Some subjects require further embedding of the curriculum to ensure consistent teaching practices across the board. Leaders are aware of these challenges and are committed to enhancing the educational experience for all pupils.
In conclusion, St Anne's Primary School stands out as a model of excellence in education, characterized by a supportive environment, high expectations, and a commitment to both academic and personal development. As the school continues to build on its successes, it remains dedicated to providing a nurturing and enriching experience for all its pupils. With strong leadership and a passionate staff, St Anne's is well-positioned to maintain its reputation as a good school for years to come.
