Westmorland Primary School, located in Brinnington, Stockport, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on July 18 and 19, 2023. The school is deeply integrated into its local community, providing a nurturing environment where pupils feel secure and supported. Staff members are dedicated to understanding the needs of their students and their families, offering both emotional and practical assistance. This commitment fosters a positive atmosphere where pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, can thrive.
The relationships between staff and pupils are characterized by warmth and mutual respect. Pupils are encouraged to express their concerns and know they can rely on trusted adults for support. The school effectively addresses any incidents of bullying, ensuring a safe environment for all. Leaders and staff maintain high expectations for pupil achievement and behavior, motivating students to strive for excellence and treat one another with kindness.
Westmorland Primary School offers a rich curriculum that extends beyond traditional classroom learning. Pupils engage with guest speakers and participate in events such as art exhibitions, enhancing their educational experience. The school’s M.O.R.E. curriculum emphasizes memorable learning, oracy, reading, and real experiences, allowing pupils to build knowledge progressively from early years through to the end of key stage two.
Teachers are skilled in delivering lessons and assessing pupil understanding, quickly addressing any misconceptions. Overall, pupils perform well across various subjects, although recent national assessments indicated that those at the end of key stage one did not achieve as well as their peers nationally. Leaders have taken swift action to improve these outcomes, and progress is being made. However, some pupils' learning is affected by frequent absences, which the school is actively working to address.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive effective support, thanks to the dedication of trained staff who identify their needs promptly. Most parents express high satisfaction with the support provided by the school. The school prioritizes reading, recognizing its importance in developing vocabulary and a love for literature. A new phonics curriculum has been introduced, and while staff generally implement it well, there are areas for improvement in supporting struggling readers.
Pupils demonstrate positive attitudes towards learning and work collaboratively. Instances of poor behavior are rare, contributing to a focused learning environment. The youngest children exhibit enthusiasm for their education. The school encourages pupils to engage in community service and leadership roles, fostering a sense of responsibility and citizenship. Pupils are aware of the importance of physical health and mental well-being, participating in sports and utilizing outdoor gym equipment.
The school’s governance is strong, with governors supporting the leadership team and ensuring resources are used effectively. Staff feel valued and supported, with leaders considering their workload and well-being in decision-making. Safeguarding arrangements are robust, with staff trained to recognize and respond to various safeguarding issues. Pupils are knowledgeable about safety, including internet safety and awareness of gang culture.
To enhance its effectiveness, the school needs to ensure that all staff employ the most effective strategies for supporting struggling readers, enabling them to read with confidence. Additionally, improving attendance rates is crucial for maximizing learning opportunities for all pupils. Overall, Westmorland Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its students.
