Nether Alderley Primary School, located in Macclesfield, Cheshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 1, 2022. The school provides a supportive environment where pupils feel safe and well cared for. Students express trust in the adults at the school, indicating that they can rely on them for assistance with any issues they may encounter. The high expectations set by the staff are well understood by the pupils, who strive to meet these standards, resulting in commendable achievements across the curriculum.
Pupils at Nether Alderley Primary School demonstrate happiness and a strong sense of responsibility regarding their behavior. The majority of students, including those in the early years, exhibit positive conduct during lessons and playtimes. Reports of bullying are minimal, and when incidents do occur, teachers are effective in addressing them. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including clubs focused on cooking, football, and sewing, which contribute to a well-rounded educational experience. Pupils appreciate the emphasis on important values such as honesty, respect, and manners, and they value the recognition they receive for demonstrating these qualities.
The curriculum at Nether Alderley Primary School is well-structured and ambitious, catering for the diverse needs of pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Teachers employ effective assessment methods to gauge pupils' understanding, and ongoing training ensures that staff remain knowledgeable about their subjects. Reading is prioritized, with a strong phonics program in place that begins in the Reception Year. Most children quickly grasp phonics and can read simple words, with many progressing to reading full sentences as they advance through the school. However, a small number of pupils in Key Stage 1 struggle with reading fluency due to insufficient practice with phonics, which hinders their ability to tackle unfamiliar texts.
In most subjects, the curriculum is clearly organized, allowing pupils to retain knowledge and apply it in future learning. For instance, early years mathematics instruction effectively prepares children for more complex concepts. Nonetheless, in certain subjects like history and art, the curriculum lacks coherence, leading to gaps in pupils' understanding of how their learning connects. This can impede their ability to build knowledge securely.
The school has robust systems in place to support pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they can access the curriculum effectively. Most pupils exhibit good behavior and take their learning seriously, with minimal disruption to lessons. The school offers a range of activities beyond academics, including opportunities for pupils to take on leadership roles, such as house captains or school councillors.
Staff members report that school leaders are approachable and supportive, fostering a positive work environment. The governing body demonstrates a strong understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement, providing effective oversight and accountability. Safeguarding measures are robust, with well-trained staff who are vigilant about the signs of abuse and provide pupils with essential safety information.
To enhance its performance, the school must ensure that all pupils, particularly those struggling with reading, receive ample opportunities to practice and solidify their phonics knowledge. Additionally, leaders should work on creating a more coherent curriculum across all subjects to facilitate better knowledge retention and application. Overall, Nether Alderley Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong foundation for future growth and improvement.
