St Wilfrid’s CofE Aided Primary School Northenden has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 25 and 26 June 2024. The headteacher, Helena Miller, leads the school, which is part of the Thrive Church of England Academy Trust. This trust is overseen by CEO John Barrett and a board of trustees chaired by Paul Good. The school is characterized by a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, where pupils express happiness in attending and look forward to their learning and playtime. The strong community spirit is evident, particularly through the relationships formed between older and younger pupils.
Pupils at St Wilfrid’s develop trusting relationships with staff, who are committed to helping them resolve any issues. The behavior of pupils is generally good, with kindness and respect being core values. During playtimes, pupils engage in various games and activities, fostering a sense of enjoyment and camaraderie. Leadership roles within the school are embraced by pupils, who contribute positively to the school community. For instance, the courageous advocacy team has led initiatives to raise awareness about air pollution and promote walking or cycling to school.
The school offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including sports clubs such as dodgeball and basketball, as well as music, yoga, and cheerleading. These opportunities allow pupils to explore their interests and develop their talents. The curriculum is well-structured, particularly in the early years, where there is a strong emphasis on communication and language development. This foundation prepares children for effective reading instruction, which is delivered through a highly effective phonics program. Staff are proactive in identifying pupils who may struggle with reading and provide the necessary support.
In most subjects, the school has clearly defined learning objectives and a well-organized curriculum that accommodates mixed-age classes. Teachers collaborate regularly to design learning experiences, which helps manage their workload. Staff training has been effective in enhancing teaching techniques, particularly in helping pupils retain knowledge over time. However, there are instances where some teachers do not adequately check pupils’ understanding, leading to persistent misconceptions that can hinder future learning.
The school is attentive to the needs of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, ensuring they receive appropriate support. Staff take the time to understand children before they join the school, facilitating a smooth transition. Teachers are informed about the additional needs of these pupils and adapt learning activities accordingly.
Efforts to improve attendance rates, especially for disadvantaged pupils, have been implemented. The school closely monitors attendance data to identify trends and works with families to support those who are frequently absent. Clear expectations for behavior are set, and pupils are motivated to meet these standards. The school’s approach to teaching social skills in the early years fosters positive interactions among children.
St Wilfrid’s has developed a comprehensive program for personal, social, health, and economic education, covering various topics, including health and safety. The school promotes an appreciation of diversity through community engagement and educational trips, enhancing pupils’ understanding of different cultures and faiths. The safeguarding arrangements in place are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
Overall, St Wilfrid’s CofE Aided Primary School Northenden continues to provide a good quality of education, with a strong emphasis on community, support, and personal development. The school is committed to addressing areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all pupils have a solid understanding of their learning.
