St George’s C of E Primary School in Mossley, Ashton-under-Lyne, has been recognized for its overall effectiveness, receiving a Good rating in various aspects including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school, celebrating its 150th anniversary, fosters a strong sense of community among its pupils, who express pride in their school and enjoyment in attending. They appreciate the kindness of their teachers and the supportive environment created by the staff, which contributes to their feelings of safety and well-being.
Pupils demonstrate excellent behavior during school activities and in the playground, where they engage positively with one another. The school promotes a culture of support, with older students taking on leadership roles to assist younger peers. The leadership team is dedicated to providing all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, with a strong foundation for their future learning. The curriculum is well-structured, allowing pupils to make good progress across subjects, and is complemented by enriching experiences such as educational trips that enhance their learning.
The school’s curriculum is ambitious and broad, ensuring that all pupils, including those with SEND, are engaged in a wide range of subjects. Leaders have carefully designed the curriculum to facilitate connections between topics, which aids in pupils' understanding. However, there are some inconsistencies in the delivery of the curriculum across a small number of subjects, particularly in key stage two, which can affect pupils' grasp of essential concepts. Teachers generally present information clearly and are knowledgeable about their subjects, regularly checking for understanding and providing support where needed.
The school has made significant strides in developing strong reading skills among its pupils. Recent changes to the phonics curriculum have resulted in increased confidence and fluency in reading, with staff quickly identifying and supporting those who struggle. Pupils enjoy reading and are encouraged to explore a variety of high-quality literature, which enhances their engagement with reading.
Leaders and governors are committed to the personal development of pupils, ensuring they have access to a range of cultural, social, and leadership experiences. The enrichment program, titled 11 experiences before 11, aims to provide all pupils with opportunities that prepare them for life beyond primary school. Pupils learn about important social values such as friendship and tolerance through personal, social, and health education lessons.
The school has effective safeguarding measures in place, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks. Leaders work closely with external agencies to provide timely support for pupils and their families. Pupils are educated on safety, including online safety, which is an essential aspect of their development.
While the school has many strengths, it is essential for leaders to address the variations in curriculum implementation to ensure all pupils achieve a secure understanding of key concepts. By enhancing consistency across subjects, the school can further improve the quality of education it provides. Overall, St George’s C of E Primary School is a nurturing environment where pupils thrive academically and personally, supported by dedicated staff and a strong community ethos.
