The Divine Mercy Roman Catholic Primary School in Manchester underwent an inspection on May 22 and 23, 2024, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of Requires Improvement. The quality of education was also rated as Requires Improvement, while behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management received a Good rating. Early years provision was similarly rated as Requires Improvement. The school has experienced significant changes since its last inspection, where it was rated Good.
Pupils express pride in their school community, appreciating its diversity and the welcoming atmosphere for new students. They feel safe and supported, with positive relationships between staff and pupils. The school has high expectations for pupil achievement, and recent changes have been noted to enhance learning across the curriculum. However, many pupils struggle to articulate their prior learning, which affects their progress.
The school has made strides in improving behaviour and attendance, with notable improvements in these areas. Staff report a positive culture and feel supported in their roles, benefiting from comprehensive training. The school has effectively addressed previous weaknesses identified in past inspections, and staff are confident in their abilities to lead various aspects of the school’s work.
The curriculum has undergone a complete overhaul this academic year, aiming to be ambitious and well-structured. Enrichment opportunities, such as visits to theatres and museums, enhance pupils' experiences. However, the early years curriculum lacks clarity regarding essential knowledge and skills, leaving staff uncertain about preparing children for future stages of education.
While staff are skilled in identifying and addressing misconceptions in current learning, they are less effective in revisiting previous knowledge, which hinders pupils' ability to build on their learning over time. This gap in knowledge affects overall achievement. The phonics programme is well-delivered, and although many pupils face challenges in meeting expected standards in early assessments, they generally leave Year 6 as confident readers.
The literature selected for pupils broadens their personal development, addressing important topics such as diversity and inclusion. Pupils engage in leadership roles and contribute to the school community through various clubs and initiatives. The governing body shares the school’s vision and ambition, effectively supporting and challenging the school in its improvement journey.
Safeguarding arrangements are deemed effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. To improve, the school needs to refine the early years curriculum to provide clearer guidance on what children should learn and when. Additionally, it must address gaps in pupils' knowledge from previous curriculums to ensure a solid foundation for future learning. Regularly revisiting prior content will help pupils make connections between their learning, enhancing their understanding and retention of knowledge over time.
Overall, while the school has made significant progress in various areas, there are still critical aspects that require attention to ensure that all pupils achieve their full potential. The commitment to improvement is evident, and with focused efforts, the school can enhance its educational offerings and outcomes for all students.
