Located in the heart of Ancoats, Manchester, St. Anne’s RC Primary School has established itself as a cornerstone of the community, providing a nurturing and supportive environment for its pupils. Following its recent inspection on November 26-27, 2019, the school continues to be recognized as a good institution, reflecting its commitment to high educational standards and the well-being of its students.
St. Anne’s embodies its motto, “Every child, every chance,” which resonates throughout the school’s ethos. The leadership team maintains high expectations for all pupils, fostering an environment where students are encouraged to strive for excellence. The school is described as a safe haven, where families and children receive robust support, ensuring that pupils feel secure and valued. This supportive atmosphere contributes to the happiness of the students, who report having many friends and a strong sense of belonging, often referring to their school as a family.
Pupils at St. Anne’s exhibit commendable behavior, demonstrating respect and kindness towards visitors and each other. The engaging curriculum, which includes interesting and fun activities, fuels their enthusiasm for learning. Students understand the importance of education in achieving their future aspirations, and they actively participate in their learning journey.
The school’s leadership is proactive in seeking continuous improvement. They have made significant strides in enhancing the curriculum, ensuring that it is both logical and comprehensive. Pupils enjoy a diverse range of subjects and are provided with opportunities to develop essential life skills through activities such as debates and leading mass at the local church.
Reading is a particular focus at St. Anne’s, with most pupils achieving the expected standards by the end of Year 6. The school offers a wide selection of books, fostering a love for reading among students. However, there are areas for growth, particularly in ensuring that reading materials align with the phonics being taught, as mismatched books can hinder some pupils’ progress.
Mathematics instruction is another strength, with teachers demonstrating strong subject knowledge and effectively planning lessons that build on prior learning. Pupils enjoy mathematics and learn to embrace mistakes as part of the learning process.
Despite these strengths, the school acknowledges the need for improvement in how assessment information is utilized across various subjects. Leaders are working to ensure that assessment procedures are embedded, allowing teachers to better inform future learning and address any gaps in knowledge.
St. Anne’s places a high priority on safeguarding, with effective arrangements in place to ensure the safety of all pupils. The school has cultivated strong relationships with families and the local community, providing regular training for staff and pupils on safety protocols. This commitment to safeguarding extends beyond the school, equipping pupils with the knowledge to stay safe in various environments.
In conclusion, St. Anne’s RC Primary School stands out as a model of excellence in education, characterized by its caring community, strong leadership, and commitment to continuous improvement. While there are areas for development, the school’s proactive approach and dedication to its pupils’ success ensure that it remains a vital part of the Ancoats community. As St. Anne’s continues to evolve, it is poised to provide every child with the chance to thrive and succeed.
