Didsbury CofE Primary School, located in Manchester, underwent an inspection on November 22 and 23, 2022, and was rated as good overall. The school provides a positive environment where pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, enjoy their learning experiences and generally achieve well. Many pupils excel in certain subjects, and they express enthusiasm for learning, describing it as fun and engaging. However, there are concerns regarding the early years provision, where some children do not learn as effectively as their peers in other year groups.
Pupils form strong friendships and appreciate the supportive relationships they have with staff, contributing to a happy school atmosphere. The school promotes values such as self-belief and determination, and pupils understand the expectations placed upon them to strive for their best. The school has a strong focus on behavior, with pupils demonstrating thoughtful actions and kindness, which reflects the high standards set by the leadership team. The school effectively addresses bullying, ensuring that pupils feel safe and heard.
Didsbury CofE Primary School offers a broad and ambitious curriculum, with leaders working closely with parents, pupils, and staff to maintain high standards, particularly in reading and mathematics. Despite some inconsistencies in the early years curriculum, pupils are generally well-prepared for their transition to secondary education. Leaders have invested time in refining the curriculum, and while most subjects are well-structured, there are areas, particularly in early years, that require further development to ensure all teachers focus on essential knowledge.
Teachers typically select activities that align with the curriculum, providing demanding work that builds on prior learning. However, there are instances where learning activities do not match the curriculum, particularly in early years, which can hinder pupil learning. Leaders are aware of these issues and are actively working to address them.
Assessment strategies are effectively employed to identify gaps in pupil understanding, and leaders ensure that this information is utilized to adapt teaching methods. The school has made strides in phonics and reading, with a new phonics program in place that aligns with the sounds pupils are learning. While staff generally teach phonics well, there are minor inconsistencies in how reading is supported, and additional training is being organized to enhance staff skills in this area.
Leaders prioritize the needs of pupils with SEND, ensuring they are integrated into the classroom alongside their peers. This approach allows these pupils to access the same ambitious curriculum as their classmates. Staff are trained to help pupils manage their emotions, contributing to a positive learning environment where lessons are rarely disrupted.
The school also emphasizes personal, social, and health education, providing pupils with experiences that broaden their understanding of the world. Leaders ensure that pupils are aware of significant events and their responsibilities towards others. The governing body and trustees provide effective oversight, supporting leaders in managing change and ensuring staff well-being.
The safeguarding arrangements at Didsbury CofE Primary School are robust, with leaders implementing thorough systems to protect pupils. Staff are well-trained in safeguarding practices, and pupils are taught how to keep themselves safe, including online. Overall, while the school demonstrates many strengths, particularly in pupil achievement and well-being, there are areas for improvement, especially in the early years curriculum, which leaders are committed to addressing.
