St Anne's RC Primary School, located on Clarendon Road in Audenshaw, Manchester, recently underwent an inspection by Ofsted, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of Good. The inspection, conducted on March 28 and 29, 2023, highlighted the school's commitment to fostering a strong sense of community, promoting personal development, and ensuring high standards of education.
One standout feature of St Anne's is the strong sense of community that permeates the school environment. Pupils actively engage in raising funds for local and global charities, showcasing their commitment to social responsibility. The school choir regularly performs across the region, highlighting the talents of its students and fostering a sense of pride and belonging. This active participation in community service enriches the pupils' educational experience and instills values of empathy and citizenship.
The quality of education at St Anne's is commendable, with pupils achieving well across the curriculum. The school has well-designed subject curriculums that outline essential knowledge for pupils to acquire. Teachers possess strong subject knowledge and deliver ambitious content that caters to all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. This inclusive approach ensures every pupil has the opportunity to succeed. Teachers regularly assess pupils' learning, addressing misconceptions and supporting individual learning needs, contributing to positive academic outcomes.
Pupils at St Anne's exhibit exemplary behaviour, both in the classroom and throughout the school. Instances of bullying are rare, and school leaders swiftly resolve conflicts. High expectations regarding behaviour are well understood by pupils, who conduct themselves admirably during lessons and in communal areas.
The school places a strong emphasis on personal development, offering a wide range of extracurricular activities to cater to various interests. From sports competitions to music lessons, pupils are encouraged to explore their talents and develop new skills. The curriculum promotes British values, respect for diversity, and emotional well-being, preparing pupils for life in modern Britain.
The early years provision at St Anne's is equally impressive, providing children, including those with SEND, a positive start to their education. Teachers facilitate learning and positive relationships among children, ensuring they are well-prepared for the transition to Key Stage 1.
While the inspection report is largely positive, it highlights areas for further development. Some subject leaders are still honing their skills in evaluating the effectiveness of their subjects, limiting their ability to support teachers effectively. To enhance the quality of education further, leaders are encouraged to strengthen the oversight of subject leaders to better assist teachers in delivering the curriculum.
In conclusion, St Anne's RC Primary School stands out as a nurturing and effective educational institution in Audenshaw. With strong community ties, high educational standards, and a focus on personal development, the school is well-positioned to continue fostering the growth and success of its pupils. The school's leadership is dedicated to addressing areas for improvement, ensuring St Anne's remains a beacon of excellence in education for years to come.