Sandbach Primary Academy, located in Sandbach, Cheshire, has been recognized for its strong educational framework and supportive environment. The school, which is part of the Aspire Academy Trust, has consistently maintained a good standard across various aspects of education, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The headteacher, Claire Caldwell, leads a dedicated team that emphasizes the importance of kindness and respect among pupils, fostering a caring community where students feel valued and supported.
Pupils at Sandbach Primary Academy enjoy attending school and actively participate in creating a positive atmosphere. They engage in roles such as ‘happiness heroes,’ which encourages them to contribute to the school’s nurturing environment. The school has high expectations for student achievement, and pupils generally perform well across the curriculum. This includes those with special educational needs and disabilities, who receive tailored support to ensure they are well-prepared for future educational stages.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities that promote resilience and independence among students. Pupils enthusiastically share their experiences from after-school clubs and residential trips, highlighting their pride in projects aimed at improving their community, such as promoting cleaner air. The school’s commitment to fostering a love of reading is evident, with pupils expressing excitement about exploring new authors and sharing recommendations with peers. Staff actively encourage a diverse range of reading materials, contributing to a vibrant reading culture.
In the early years provision, children engage in activities that develop their listening skills and phonetic awareness, preparing them for formal education. The curriculum is thoughtfully organized, although there are areas where the school is still refining its approach to ensure that essential knowledge is clearly defined. This refinement is necessary to help teachers design effective learning experiences that build on students' prior knowledge.
While staff generally check for understanding before introducing new concepts, there are instances where prior learning is not adequately assessed, leading to gaps in knowledge retention. The school recognizes the importance of addressing these gaps and is working to enhance assessment strategies to better support pupil learning.
Attendance has significantly improved, with the school prioritizing this aspect of student welfare. For those who require additional support, effective measures are in place to enhance attendance rates. The personal development program is comprehensive, integrating life skills into the curriculum, such as financial literacy in mathematics. Educational trips and visitors enrich the learning experience, and pupils appreciate the opportunities to learn outside the classroom.
Governance at Sandbach Primary Academy is strong, with trustees bringing valuable expertise to support staff development. The collaborative atmosphere within the school is evident, with staff feeling supported and valued. The school’s commitment to safeguarding is robust, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
Despite the many strengths, the school acknowledges areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all subjects effectively check for knowledge retention over time. This will help address any learning gaps and enhance the overall educational experience. The school is dedicated to refining its curriculum to ensure that pupils develop a deep understanding of subject matter, ultimately preparing them for future success.
