Parkroyal Community School in Macclesfield, Cheshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 29 and 30, 2022. The school provides a welcoming environment where children feel safe and well cared for. Pupils express a strong sense of belonging and report that bullying is not tolerated, with staff intervening promptly when issues arise. The school fosters a nurturing atmosphere, particularly for students with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that all pupils are supported in their learning journey. The school's motto, Nurture, Inspire, Flourish and Believe, is evident in the daily interactions between staff and students.
Pupils demonstrate positive behavior and a strong attitude towards learning, which reflects the high expectations set by school leaders. They enjoy a broad curriculum and achieve well across various subjects. The school also offers numerous extracurricular activities, including after-school clubs and sports events, contributing to a well-rounded educational experience. Students feel there is something for everyone, enhancing their overall happiness at school.
The leadership team at Parkroyal Community School has a clear vision and is ambitious for all pupils, including those with SEND. Staff members are dedicated and passionate about their roles, continuously seeking ways to improve the school. Reading is prioritized, with structured phonics lessons in the early years that effectively build pupils' reading skills. By the end of Key Stage 1, most pupils can read fluently, and older students develop a love for reading, showcasing a broad knowledge of authors and genres.
The curriculum is designed to help pupils acquire essential knowledge across all subjects, with leaders identifying key learning objectives and the sequence in which they should be taught. However, in a few subjects, there is a need for clearer guidance on essential knowledge and how to assess pupils' understanding effectively. This gap can lead to misconceptions going unchecked, which may hinder pupils' progress.
The school has established effective systems for identifying and supporting pupils with SEND, ensuring they have access to the same curriculum as their peers. Leaders promote a positive culture where diversity is celebrated, and pupils learn to maintain healthy relationships. Older students are given responsibilities, such as being buddies for younger pupils, which fosters a sense of community and leadership.
Pupils generally behave well, and lessons are rarely disrupted by poor behavior. They enjoy their playtime in well-resourced outdoor areas, further enhancing their school experience. Staff members feel supported by school leaders and appreciate the efforts made to manage their workload. Parents and carers express high levels of satisfaction with the school, noting the exceptional support provided by staff, especially during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The safeguarding arrangements at Parkroyal Community School are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to concerns regarding pupil safety and well-being. Leaders ensure that pupils are educated about online safety and community awareness.
To improve further, the school needs to ensure that all subjects have clearly defined essential knowledge and systematic checks on pupils' learning. Addressing these areas will help solidify the strong foundation already established and enhance the overall educational experience for all students.
