Mossley Church of England Primary School, located in Congleton, Cheshire, underwent an inspection on September 17-18, 2019, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has made significant improvements since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The quality of education is also rated as good, with outstanding ratings for behavior and attitudes, as well as personal development. Leadership and management, along with early years provision, are also rated as good.
Pupils at Mossley Church of England Primary School express happiness and a sense of safety within the school environment. They demonstrate respect for one another and for the staff, embracing the school's Christian ethos. Pupils feel cared for by the staff and are confident in approaching adults with any concerns. The behavior of pupils is exemplary, and they show enthusiasm for learning, particularly in subjects like art and science. They enjoy challenges and find the work engaging and thought-provoking. Pupils report that bullying is not an issue at the school, attributing this to a strong sense of community and mutual support among students.
The school excels in providing a well-rounded education, with leaders, governors, and teachers having successfully improved pupils' achievements in reading, writing, and mathematics. The curriculum is ambitious and effective, with strong progress noted in subjects such as science, geography, and history. Leaders have collaborated with subject specialists to ensure that the curriculum is well-structured and that pupils are engaged through various learning experiences, including educational trips to museums and historical sites.
In the early years, the provision is good, with staff creating stimulating learning environments that foster children's skills and knowledge. Children engage in creative activities and have strong relationships with staff, which supports their development. The curriculum in early years is engaging and helps children acquire essential knowledge, particularly in reading, writing, and mathematics.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive timely support, ensuring they can engage in learning and achieve their best. The school prioritizes reading, with daily phonics lessons and a strong emphasis on reading fluency and comprehension across all year groups. Older pupils are familiar with a variety of authors and enjoy diverse genres of literature.
The school has a positive atmosphere, with high staff morale and a commitment to pupil achievement. Staff feel supported by leadership and are dedicated to their roles. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to recognize signs of abuse and neglect. Leaders actively teach pupils about safety, including internet safety and the risks of radicalization and exploitation.
While the school has made commendable progress, there is a need for further improvement in the art curriculum. Leaders have recently revised the curriculum but must ensure that all teachers fully understand the new expectations to enhance pupils' knowledge and retention in this subject. Overall, Mossley Church of England Primary School is a thriving educational institution that prioritizes the well-being and development of its pupils while fostering a strong sense of community and respect.
