Manor Primary School is a well-regarded institution located in Reading, Berkshire, serving a diverse community. The recent inspection conducted on February 28 and March 1, 2023, rated the school as good across all areas, including overall effectiveness, quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school’s motto, making people successful, reflects its commitment to fostering an environment where pupils are motivated to achieve their best.
Pupils at Manor Primary School exhibit positive attitudes towards learning, actively engaging in discussions and demonstrating a clear understanding of how their education will benefit their future aspirations. The school provides a variety of extracurricular activities, including clubs focused on construction, STEM, and computing, which are well-received by students. Parents express satisfaction with the supportive relationships between staff and pupils, noting that these connections contribute significantly to their children's development and well-being.
The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, beginning in the early years where language development is prioritized. Staff ensure that children are immersed in language-rich experiences, such as storytelling and poetry, which lay a strong foundation for their learning. The school has identified key vocabulary across subjects, helping pupils articulate their thoughts and engage in meaningful discussions about their learning.
Reading is a major focus at Manor Primary School, with a consistent and effective approach that enables children to develop their reading skills quickly. Teachers provide targeted support to ensure that all pupils progress, utilizing assessments to monitor their development. Special events, such as trips to local bookshops and literary festivals, further promote a love of reading among students.
In science, the use of high-quality resources, including videos and models, enhances pupils' understanding of complex concepts. Teachers employ various strategies, such as quizzes, to reinforce learning and help pupils retain information. However, the assessment practices in some foundation subjects require further development to ensure that teachers have a precise understanding of what pupils know and can do.
The school is committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, providing tailored resources and clear guidance to facilitate their learning. Leaders are aware of the importance of attendance and are actively working to improve rates among pupils who struggle to attend regularly. They are collaborating with external partners to strengthen relationships with families and encourage better attendance.
Manor Primary School promotes respect and understanding of diversity through its curriculum, which includes visits to local places of worship and discussions about different families and relationships. Pupils learn the importance of physical health and are encouraged to engage in sports and exercise, although there is a need for more emphasis on mental health awareness.
Pupils take on responsibilities within the school, such as house captains, which fosters a sense of democracy and agency. They are encouraged to express their views and understand the impact they can have on their community. The school also provides opportunities for pupils to learn about various career paths through guest speakers, helping them to aspire to future success.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with clear procedures understood by all staff. Pupils feel safe and are educated about online safety, ensuring they are aware of potential risks. Overall, Manor Primary School is a nurturing environment where pupils thrive academically and socially, although there are areas for improvement, particularly in assessment practices and attendance rates.
