St James’ CofE Primary School Gorton, located in Manchester, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 4 and 5, 2023. The school is characterized by a warm and welcoming environment where parents and carers appreciate the efforts made by leaders to involve them in school activities. The school has made significant strides in raising expectations for all pupils, particularly those with special educational needs and disabilities. Leaders have acknowledged past shortcomings in pupil achievement and have implemented rapid changes to the curriculum to address these issues, resulting in improved outcomes for students.
Pupil behavior is commendable, with students demonstrating respect and kindness towards one another. The school fosters an inclusive atmosphere where discrimination is not tolerated, and incidents of bullying are rare and effectively managed. This positive environment contributes to pupils feeling safe and happy at school. The school offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including sports, a successful cheerleading team, a choir, and clubs focused on mindfulness and French. Leadership opportunities are available for pupils through the school council, prefect roles, and worship leadership.
Leaders have successfully adapted the curriculum to address learning gaps caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, providing effective support for those most affected. The curriculum is broad and creative, with a clear structure that outlines the knowledge expected of pupils. Teachers are well-supported in delivering the curriculum confidently, employing effective strategies to assess pupil understanding. However, in a minority of subjects, there is a need for greater emphasis on developing pupils' knowledge and skills, as some students struggle to retain prior learning, which can hinder their progress.
The phonics program is well-implemented, with staff trained to deliver it effectively. Early years pupils are well-prepared for phonics learning, and older pupils receive support to address gaps in their reading knowledge. Leaders prioritize reading, promoting a love for literature through initiatives like weekly reading cafés that engage parents and children. The school has established robust systems to support pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they are fully included in school life and extracurricular activities.
Classrooms are conducive to learning, with clear expectations for behavior. Leaders provide additional support for pupils who may struggle with self-regulation, minimizing disruptions to learning. The school has designed a personal development program that includes opportunities for pupils to learn about local culture and community engagement, such as visits to care homes.
Staff morale is high, with teachers expressing pride in their work and appreciation for the support they receive from leaders regarding their well-being and professional development. The school is part of the Vantage Academy Trust and the Diocese of Manchester, benefiting from strong governance and support.
The safeguarding arrangements at St James’ are effective, with a strong culture of safeguarding established by leaders. Staff receive regular training to recognize and report potential risks to pupil welfare. Pupils are educated about online safety and feel confident reporting any concerns to adults in the school.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all teachers effectively support pupils in recalling prior knowledge to enhance their learning. Overall, St James’ CofE Primary School Gorton continues to provide a good quality of education, with a commitment to ongoing improvement and the well-being of its pupils.