St Joseph’s RC Primary School in Mossley, Ashton-under-Lyne, has been inspected and continues to be recognized as a good school. The inspection took place on 26 and 27 September 2023. Pupils at the school express enjoyment in their learning environment, feeling well cared for and happy. They demonstrate respect for one another and welcome newcomers, fostering a sense of community. The staff's kindness and support are appreciated by the students, who take pride in their school. Early years children settle in well and engage positively in both learning and play.
The school has high expectations for its pupils, who strive to meet these standards. They work collaboratively in class and listen attentively to their teachers, which contributes to their overall achievement. The pupils exhibit a strong sense of right and wrong, and their behavior is commendable. They enjoy their break and lunchtime activities, participating in various sports such as tag rugby, football, and dodgeball. Additionally, the school offers a range of extracurricular activities, including choir, cornet club, and eco-club, which help to broaden pupils' interests and hobbies. Educational trips to museums, zoos, and local sites further enhance their learning experiences.
Since the last inspection, the school has made significant improvements to its curriculum, ensuring that it is well-structured from early years to Year 6. The curriculum identifies essential knowledge and vocabulary that pupils need to learn, enabling them to achieve well across most subjects. Most pupils, including those in early years, are well-prepared for the next stages of their education. However, there are some subjects where the essential knowledge has not been adequately considered, leading to gaps in pupils' learning.
The school effectively delivers most subject curriculums, and pupils are motivated to learn. Teachers utilize interesting resources and relevant reading materials to deepen pupils' understanding. Assessment information is used effectively to address gaps in knowledge, particularly for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, who receive appropriate support to access learning. Nonetheless, some teachers require further support to enhance their subject knowledge and confidence in delivering the curriculum consistently.
Reading is a priority at St Joseph’s, with a strong emphasis on phonics. Reception class children learn phonics effectively, and those needing extra support, including pupils with SEND, are able to catch up quickly. The school promotes a love of reading through a well-stocked library and regular book fairs, encouraging pupils to explore a variety of texts.
Pupils display calm and respectful behavior both in and out of the classroom. Teachers are attentive to individual needs, helping pupils regulate their emotions. The school provides strong support for social and emotional well-being, including access to trained mental health staff. The identification of pupils with SEND is prompt and accurate, ensuring they receive the necessary support to thrive in school.
The curriculum also promotes personal development, teaching pupils about online safety and their responsibilities to the community and environment. The school community engages in charitable activities, fostering respect for diverse cultures and religions. Governors maintain good oversight of the school, providing support and challenge, while parents are actively involved in workshops, particularly in early years education.
The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Moving forward, the school should focus on refining the curriculum in certain subjects to ensure that essential knowledge is clearly defined and logically sequenced. Additionally, it should provide ongoing support for teachers to enhance their delivery of the curriculum and effectively address any learning gaps.
