Micklehurst All Saints CofE Primary School in Ashton-under-Lyne, Lancashire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on April 18 and 19, 2023. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils express happiness and a sense of safety, forming numerous friendships. The students meet the high expectations set by school leaders, demonstrating commendable behavior and achieving well academically. They navigate the school calmly, reflecting the independence encouraged by staff. Instances of bullying are rare and are effectively managed by the leadership team.
The curriculum is designed to engage pupils, who show enthusiasm for the new knowledge they acquire in lessons. The teaching staff make learning enjoyable, which inspires students to seek further information. Educational trips, such as visits to a temple and orchestral performances, enhance the learning experience. The school incorporates drama into its curriculum, allowing pupils to explore Shakespearean plays like Hamlet with professional actors, followed by live performances.
Pupils are encouraged to expand their vocabulary through reading, with one student noting the discovery of the word colossal and its synonyms. Opportunities for leadership roles, such as digital leaders and school council members, allow students to contribute to school life. Participation in sports competitions and learning various musical instruments, including brass, further enriches their educational experience.
The school’s leadership has a clear vision for the curriculum, ensuring it meets the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. However, some areas of the curriculum lack clarity regarding essential knowledge, particularly in the early years. Subject leaders need to strengthen their understanding of the foundational aspects of the curriculum to enhance teaching and assessment.
Teachers carefully select teaching methods to facilitate learning, utilizing resources like globes, maps, and video clips. Engaging experiences, such as encounters with animals, further captivate students' interest. The school promotes a passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through hands-on activities, including robotics workshops.
Regular assessments by teachers and teaching assistants ensure that pupils grasp key concepts, allowing for timely intervention when necessary. Most pupils achieve well across various subjects. The school has successfully cultivated a love for reading, with staff sharing a diverse range of literature and promoting competitions and author visits to inspire students.
Phonics instruction is a priority, with all staff trained to teach effectively from the nursery stage. This consistent approach enables pupils to develop strong reading skills quickly. The school identifies pupils with special educational needs early and collaborates with families and professionals to provide necessary support, ensuring they access the same ambitious curriculum as their peers.
In the early years, staff focus on fostering cooperation, physical activity, and language skills, building positive relationships with children. Low-level disruption is uncommon, allowing for effective teaching. The school enriches pupils' development through various extracurricular activities, emphasizing the importance of physical activity and charitable initiatives.
Governors maintain oversight of the school's operations and prioritize the well-being of staff. The school environment is described as warm and caring, with leaders actively managing staff workloads. Safeguarding measures are robust, with regular training ensuring that all staff are aware of key issues affecting pupils and families. Leaders respond promptly to safeguarding concerns, facilitating early support for those in need.
Overall, while the school excels in many areas, there is a need for improvement in clearly defining essential knowledge within the curriculum, particularly in the early years. Strengthening leaders' understanding of early learning will enhance the support provided to staff and ultimately benefit the pupils' educational journey.
