Birchfields Primary School, located in Fallowfield, Manchester, has recently undergone an inspection on the 1st and 2nd of October 2024. The school has received commendable ratings across various categories, including good for the quality of education, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision, while behaviour and attitudes have been rated outstanding. The school has maintained a good grade since its previous inspection in March 2023.
Pupils at Birchfields Primary School express happiness in being part of a caring and welcoming environment. They feel a strong sense of belonging and quickly adapt, even those who join mid-year. The school fosters a culture of high expectations for all pupils, including those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs and disabilities. Most pupils rise to these expectations and appreciate the recognition they receive for their efforts.
Behaviour in the school is exemplary, with pupils demonstrating positive attitudes towards learning. They understand the significance of the school’s values and rules, articulating concepts such as resilience and the importance of aiming high. The school offers a variety of experiences, including educational trips to museums and parks, which are often linked to the curriculum. Additionally, pupils engage in numerous extracurricular activities, such as sports, music, and computing.
The school has made significant strides in developing a broad and knowledge-rich curriculum, ensuring that essential knowledge is taught in a logical sequence from early years through to key stage one. Most pupils learn effectively across various subjects. However, there is a noted need for improvement in developing pupils' written and spoken communication skills, as some pupils struggle with fluency and accuracy in these areas.
Teachers at Birchfields Primary School possess strong subject knowledge and effectively deliver the curriculum. They receive ongoing training and support, enabling them to create suitable learning activities. Regular assessments help identify gaps in pupils' knowledge, although some subjects are still refining their assessment methods. The school is proactive in identifying pupils with special educational needs, working closely with parents and professionals to ensure these pupils can access the full curriculum.
Reading is a priority at Birchfields, with a curriculum built around high-quality texts that reflect the community it serves. The school has enhanced its library, making it inviting and well-stocked, and older pupils contribute to selecting new books. In the early years, children are exposed to a wealth of stories and songs, and the phonics programme is implemented effectively.
The nurturing relationships between staff and pupils contribute to a respectful and harmonious atmosphere. The school emphasizes the importance of regular attendance and collaborates with families to support those facing challenges. The personal development programme educates pupils on physical and mental health, helping them develop aspirations for future careers.
Governors play an active role in supporting and challenging the school, focusing on educational quality. Staff feel valued and supported, with the school taking their workload and well-being into account. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
To further improve, the school needs to place greater emphasis on enhancing pupils' communication skills, ensuring that the increased expectations for oracy and written communication effectively support their development in these critical areas.
