Prestolee Primary School, located in Radcliffe, Manchester, has recently undergone an inspection by Ofsted, which took place on June 11 and 12, 2024. The school has received an overall effectiveness rating of outstanding, reflecting its exceptional quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The headteacher, Alex Keane, leads the school, which is part of the Prestolee Trust, overseen by CEO Michael Tonge and a board of trustees chaired by Andrew Sargeant. This inspection marks the first under section five of the Education Act 2005, although the school was previously judged outstanding before its conversion to an academy.
The learning experience at Prestolee Primary School is described as fantastic, with pupils from early years to Year 6 embodying the school’s motto to aim high and strive for personal excellence. The school fosters a positive environment where students are happy, greet their peers and staff warmly, and are encouraged to meet high expectations. This includes pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, who consistently achieve remarkable results.
Pupils are engaged and enthusiastic about their learning, supported by staff who know them well and provide nurturing care. Their behavior is exemplary, as they work diligently in lessons and interact positively during playtime. The school offers a rich array of enrichment opportunities, including trips to local farms, museums, and places of worship, as well as participation in sports competitions and community events.
The curriculum at Prestolee Primary School is well-structured, ensuring that essential knowledge is taught effectively across subjects. Staff receive regular training to enhance their teaching skills, enabling them to deliver the curriculum with expertise. They are skilled in identifying and addressing pupils’ misconceptions, using assessment strategies to inform future learning. This approach has resulted in pupils developing a deep understanding of various subjects, which is evident in the high-quality work they produce and the insightful discussions they engage in.
Reading is a central focus of the curriculum, with phonics instruction beginning in the Reception Year. The nursery curriculum promotes a love for stories and rhymes, laying a strong foundation for literacy. Staff are well-trained in delivering the phonics program, ensuring that pupils read books that align with their learning. Those who struggle with reading receive additional support to help them catch up, leading to most pupils becoming confident and fluent readers.
The school excels in supporting pupils with special educational needs, providing tailored assistance that fosters independence while ensuring they learn the same curriculum as their peers. Pupils demonstrate commendable attitudes towards learning, characterized by friendliness and good manners. The school emphasizes attendance and punctuality, offering effective support to improve rates when necessary.
The development of pupils’ character is a notable strength, with a strong understanding of diversity and a commitment to inclusivity. The school provides numerous activities to nurture talents and aspirations, including clubs for netball, sign language, and debating. Governors and trustees are actively involved in the school’s development, ensuring high standards of education and staff well-being.
The safeguarding arrangements at Prestolee Primary School are effective, contributing to a safe and supportive learning environment. Overall, the school’s commitment to excellence in education is evident in its outstanding inspection results, reflecting a dedication to fostering a positive and enriching experience for all pupils.
