Rainow Primary School, located in Macclesfield, Cheshire, has been recognized for its outstanding educational environment. The recent inspection conducted on June 21 and 22, 2023, confirmed that the school maintains its overall judgment of outstanding. However, the evidence gathered during the inspection suggests that if a graded inspection were to occur now, the grade might not be as high. Inspectors have recommended that the next inspection be a graded one to provide a more accurate assessment of the school's current performance.
Pupils at Rainow Primary School express happiness in attending this caring and welcoming institution. They appreciate the strong relationships they have with their peers and the trust that staff place in them. This trust is reciprocated as students strive to meet the high expectations set by school leaders. The school fosters a sense of belonging, with pupils feeling part of a larger family. The strong pastoral care provided by the leadership team ensures that students feel safe and supported, knowing that their concerns will be addressed promptly and effectively.
Students take pride in their achievements, both academically and in extracurricular activities. This includes those with special educational needs and disabilities, who also achieve well and develop into confident members of their community. The behavior of pupils is exemplary, characterized by politeness and kindness, and they learn to respect the differences among their peers. The school offers a wealth of opportunities, particularly benefiting from its geographical setting, which allows for rich outdoor experiences. Regular residential trips from Year 2 onward help cultivate resilience and a sense of adventure among students.
Leaders at Rainow Primary School have made significant improvements to the curriculum since the COVID-19 pandemic, reflecting their ambition for all pupils to engage with a broad and purposeful educational experience. Changes in subjects such as reading and mathematics have quickly become embedded, leading to improved learning outcomes. Across all subjects, there is a strong focus on identifying key knowledge that pupils should acquire, starting from the early years. The curriculum in the Reception Year effectively prepares children for their subsequent learning stages.
While many improvements have been made, some subjects are still in the early stages of development, which has led to inconsistencies in teachers' understanding of essential knowledge. This can hinder the assessment of how well pupils retain what they have learned. Leaders are encouraged to ensure that teachers have a shared understanding of the knowledge that should be taught and how it translates into their teaching practices.
Reading is prioritized within the curriculum, with a new phonics program successfully introduced. From the start of Reception, children learn sounds and letters in a logical sequence, and older pupils continue to enjoy reading for pleasure. The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they access the same curriculum as their peers, with tailored individual learning plans where necessary.
Pupils demonstrate impeccable behavior, forming strong relationships with staff that contribute to a calm and respectful atmosphere. Older students take on responsibilities that enhance the school community, such as being prefects and playground leaders, fostering inclusivity among their younger peers. The support for personal development is exceptional, with a rich array of experiences woven into the curriculum, ensuring that all pupils benefit.
Leaders and governors possess a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement, working collaboratively with staff to enhance the quality of education. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with staff well-informed about potential risks and trained to address them diligently. Pupils learn about safety, including online safety, equipping them with the knowledge to seek help when needed. Overall, Rainow Primary School is a nurturing environment that prioritizes the well-being and development of its pupils while striving for continuous improvement in educational quality.
