Cheetham CofE Community Academy, located in Cheetham Hill, Manchester, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 13 and 14, 2023. Under the leadership of Principal Rachel Bruno, the school is part of the Cheetham Church of England Community Academy trust, which oversees its operations through a board of trustees chaired by Sarah Fletcher. The school fosters a welcoming environment where pupils take pride in their community. Teachers are dedicated to inspiring students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, to set high aspirations and enjoy their learning experiences.
Parents and carers appreciate the opportunities for involvement in school activities, such as the community Iftar meal during Ramadan, which promotes inclusivity among families of various faiths. The school emphasizes kindness and friendship among pupils, with staff ensuring that playtimes are filled with engaging activities. Anti-bullying ambassadors play a crucial role in resolving conflicts, contributing to a safe atmosphere where students feel comfortable expressing their identities and beliefs.
The curriculum at Cheetham CofE Community Academy is ambitious and tailored to the needs of its pupils and the local community. Teachers focus on expanding vocabulary, which is particularly beneficial for the many students who speak English as an additional language. The school provides robust training and support for teachers, enhancing their subject knowledge and curriculum expertise. This enables them to create effective learning activities that help pupils retain new information over time.
While pupils generally achieve well across the curriculum, some older students have gaps in their knowledge in certain subjects due to recent curriculum changes. The school is aware of this issue and is working to address it by supporting teachers in identifying and filling these gaps to ensure all students are prepared for their next educational stages. Reading is prioritized throughout the curriculum, with a strengthened phonics program that equips pupils with the skills needed for fluent and accurate reading.
The school environment is conducive to learning, with teachers fostering a culture of participation and respect. Behaviour is well-managed, and staff provide support for pupils who may struggle to meet behavioural expectations. Cheetham CofE Community Academy also emphasizes the importance of teaching pupils about their roles as responsible citizens in modern Britain, including lessons on government and democracy, which are reinforced through the school council.
Extracurricular activities, including various clubs and educational trips, enrich the pupils' learning experiences and provide them with valuable social and cultural exposure. Leadership changes have occurred since the last inspection, with trustees actively ensuring that the school meets its statutory duties and addressing any weaknesses promptly. Communication with parents is effective, keeping them informed about their children's progress and fostering a collaborative school culture.
The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. Moving forward, the school aims to continue addressing the knowledge gaps identified in older pupils while maintaining its commitment to providing a high-quality education. The inspection concluded that Cheetham CofE Community Academy remains a good school, with a strong foundation for future growth and improvement.
