Upton Priory School, located in Macclesfield, Cheshire, continues to be recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 30 and 31, 2024. Under the leadership of headteacher Emma Ransom, the school is part of the Fallibroome Trust, which oversees its operations through CEO Jeremy Spencer and a board of trustees chaired by Mike Gorton. The school is well-regarded by its pupils, who appreciate the welcoming atmosphere created by the staff. They embody the school’s values of respect, cooperation, pride, and resilience, which are seen as essential for their success both in school and in future endeavors.
The school maintains high expectations for its pupils, who generally strive to meet these standards. They take pride in receiving house points and certificates that acknowledge their hard work. Most students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, perform well across the curriculum. The behavior of pupils is commendable; they are polite, respectful, and kind, demonstrating strong learning behaviors in lessons and during playtime.
Upton Priory School offers a broad and balanced curriculum that is ambitious for all students. The curriculum is designed to build on learning from the early years, ensuring that children in the Reception class are well-prepared for Year 1. However, some subjects have revealed gaps in essential knowledge, as teachers have not always focused closely enough on the specific content that pupils need to learn. This has occasionally led to difficulties in recalling and building upon previous learning.
The school prioritizes reading and communication, particularly in the Nursery class, where staff engage children with a variety of books and conversations to enhance their language skills. Pupils are well-prepared to begin phonics instruction upon entering Reception, and staff are trained to deliver this program effectively. Regular assessments ensure that pupils keep pace with their learning, and those who struggle receive support to catch up. The school fosters a love of reading, with pupils expressing enthusiasm for the high-quality books available in their library.
Attendance rates are high, reflecting pupils' positive attitudes toward their education. Classrooms are well-resourced and provide calm environments conducive to learning. The school effectively identifies the additional needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, adapting the curriculum delivery to support their learning. Collaboration with various agencies ensures that these pupils receive the necessary specialist support.
Pupils are taught the importance of respect for all individuals, regardless of their backgrounds, and they learn about healthy lifestyles and safety. They understand the significance of democracy and actively participate in school responsibilities, such as serving as school councillors.
The trust and local governing body work collaboratively to support the school in providing high-quality education. Staff appreciate the opportunities for professional development and the consideration given to their workload and well-being. Recent initiatives, such as a new assessment system, aim to alleviate unnecessary burdens on staff.
The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Moving forward, the school aims to address the identified gaps in knowledge to enhance the overall learning experience for its students. This inspection marks the first routine evaluation since the COVID-19 pandemic, and the school has taken the impact of the pandemic into account in its ongoing development. Overall, Upton Priory School remains a strong educational institution committed to the success and well-being of its pupils.
