Mottram St Andrew Primary Academy has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 23 and 24, 2021. The pupils express a strong sense of happiness and safety while attending the school, attributing this to the attentive care provided by the staff. They appreciate the strong relationships they have with their teachers, who are described as kind and approachable. The pupils demonstrate a commitment to their learning, adhering to the high expectations set by the staff regarding both achievement and behavior. They engage actively in lessons, listen attentively, and support one another in their educational pursuits. The school has established a culture where pupils feel comfortable voicing their concerns, knowing that any issues, including bullying, will be addressed promptly.
The school encourages pupils to take on various roles and responsibilities, such as house captains and school councillors, which they find rewarding and impactful. Additionally, there are numerous extracurricular opportunities available, including sports, cooking, and choir, which further enrich the pupils' school experience. Parents and carers express high levels of support for the school, noting that the staff consistently go above and beyond to meet the needs of their children.
The leadership team has worked diligently to ensure that the curriculum is ambitious and tailored to meet the diverse needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. In most subjects, there is a clear structure regarding what pupils will learn and the sequence in which it will be taught, which aids in knowledge retention. The behavior of pupils in lessons is commendable, contributing to a conducive learning environment. Subject leaders are knowledgeable and ambitious, collaborating with teachers to monitor pupil progress and refine curriculum delivery. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in subjects outside of English and mathematics, where some subject leaders lack a comprehensive understanding of early years learning.
The mathematics curriculum is particularly effective, allowing pupils to build on their existing knowledge through well-planned activities. The school places a strong emphasis on reading, with displays promoting a love for books and staff actively engaging with pupils to recommend reading materials. Phonics instruction begins in the Reception Year, with staff well-trained in this area, ensuring that reading materials align with the phonics being taught. Regular assessments help track pupils' progress in phonics, with additional support provided to those who need it.
While assessment practices are effective in most subjects, some foundation subjects are still developing their assessment strategies, which can hinder the identification of learning gaps. The early years program is robust, with staff understanding how young children learn and providing a variety of opportunities for exploration and growth. Pupils are encouraged to engage in community support initiatives, such as fundraising for a partner school in South Africa, which fosters a sense of global citizenship.
Staff morale is high, with teachers feeling supported and respected by the leadership team, who prioritize their well-being and work-life balance. The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with a strong focus on pupil safety and regular training for staff. The school is committed to continuous improvement, with plans to enhance the understanding of curriculum sequencing among subject leaders and to strengthen assessment practices in foundation subjects. Overall, Mottram St Andrew Primary Academy continues to provide a positive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
