Ringway Primary School, located in Wythenshawe, Manchester, has been assessed as a good school following its inspection on January 25 and 26, 2023. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils feel happy and proud to attend. Staff maintain high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, which encourages them to strive for personal excellence. The relationships between pupils and staff are warm and supportive, contributing to a culture of respect and kindness. Behaviour is generally positive, and any issues, including bullying, are addressed promptly by staff, ensuring that all pupils feel safe and supported.
The school offers a diverse range of extra-curricular activities that enhance the educational experience. These include educational trips, visits from sports coaches and authors, and various clubs that encourage pupil participation. Leadership opportunities are available for students, allowing them to develop skills through roles such as eco-leaders and school prefects. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, covering a broad range of subjects from early years through to the end of key stage two. However, there are a few subjects where the curriculum development is still in its early stages, which may affect the breadth of knowledge some pupils acquire.
Teachers at Ringway Primary School are knowledgeable and present information clearly, providing opportunities for pupils to practice their learning. Assessment techniques are effectively used in many subjects to gauge pupil understanding and address learning gaps. However, in some areas, assessments are not consistently applied, which can lead to gaps in knowledge if new topics are introduced before pupils have fully grasped previous material.
Reading is a priority for the school, with staff well-trained in delivering phonics programs. They quickly identify pupils who require additional support, including those for whom English is an additional language. The school has implemented a support program for key stage two pupils to help them improve their reading skills, which is beginning to show positive results. In the early years, staff effectively help children settle into routines and focus on developing communication and language skills, as well as early numeracy.
Leaders are proactive in identifying the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that they receive appropriate support to learn alongside their peers. The school emphasizes the importance of self-reflection among pupils regarding their behaviour and its impact on others. Disruptions to learning are rare, and pupils appreciate the recognition they receive for positive behaviour.
The school places a strong emphasis on the wider development of pupils, providing a well-rounded program of activities that promote understanding of diversity, tolerance, and respect. Pupils learn about maintaining their health and well-being, both physically and mentally. Leaders and governors are aware of the school’s strengths and areas for improvement, taking staff well-being into account when making decisions.
The safeguarding arrangements at Ringway Primary School are effective, with staff well-trained in reporting procedures and monitoring pupil welfare. The school has established strong relationships with external agencies to ensure timely support for pupils and their families. Overall, while the school demonstrates many strengths, there are areas where further development is needed, particularly in finalizing curriculum expectations and enhancing assessment practices in certain subjects.
