Gorsefield Primary School, located in Radcliffe, Manchester, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 13 and 14, 2023. The school fosters a strong sense of belonging among its pupils, who take pride in the inclusive environment that welcomes everyone. Students arrive at school with enthusiasm, knowing they will receive excellent care from the staff, which contributes to their feelings of safety and well-being.
The leadership team at Gorsefield Primary School is committed to providing a high-quality education for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum, titled learning without limits, encourages pupils to overcome challenges and celebrate diversity. This approach has led to high expectations, with students demonstrating commendable effort in their lessons and maintaining exemplary behavior.
Pupils are taught the importance of tolerance and respect, learning about universal rights and treating one another with kindness. Instances of bullying are rare and are handled effectively by the staff. The school values pupil voice, allowing students to participate in various leadership roles, such as rights rangers and young librarians, which enhances their sense of community involvement.
The school community, including trustees, governors, leaders, and staff, shares a collective aspiration for pupil achievement. From the early years, staff inspire a love for learning that continues through to Year 6. The curriculum is designed to connect ambitious knowledge with rich social and cultural experiences, ensuring pupils are well-prepared for modern society.
Leaders have carefully structured the curriculum to build on prior knowledge, enabling early years children and key stage 1 pupils to establish a solid foundation. Attendance has improved since the COVID-19 pandemic, although some gaps in learning remain for older pupils due to previous irregular attendance. Leaders are actively working to address these gaps to ensure all pupils progress effectively through the curriculum.
Teachers deliver the curriculum effectively, supported by leaders who help them develop their subject expertise. They are adept at identifying and addressing misconceptions, ensuring pupils retain what they have learned. The school has robust systems in place to support pupils with special educational needs, allowing them to learn alongside their peers successfully.
In the early years, children are exposed to a rich variety of language, rhymes, and stories, setting them up for success in phonics as they progress. Teachers ensure that reading materials align with the sounds pupils have learned, enabling most to read accurately and fluently by the end of key stage 1. Older pupils express joy in sharing their favorite books, showcasing their engagement with reading.
Pupils exhibit excellent behavior in lessons and throughout the school. Early years children quickly adapt to routines and learn to interact politely, while older pupils develop an understanding of rights and responsibilities, fostering independent behavior management. The curriculum also promotes personal development, encouraging pupils to engage in debates and listen to diverse perspectives, shaping them into responsible citizens.
The school’s leadership is well-informed about pupil needs and has established effective safeguarding measures. Staff are trained to recognize and respond to any concerns, ensuring pupil welfare is prioritized. Pupils are educated on health and safety, including how to handle inappropriate online messages.
While Gorsefield Primary School is performing well, there are areas for improvement. The progress of older pupils through the curriculum can be inconsistent, with achievement varying across subjects. Leaders must continue to address learning gaps and ensure pupils apply their knowledge with increasing fluency and depth as they advance through their education. Overall, Gorsefield Primary School remains a strong educational institution dedicated to the growth and development of its pupils.
