Middleton Technology School, located in Middleton, Manchester, has undergone an ungraded inspection on June 25 and 26, 2024. The overall judgement remains good, but evidence suggests that a graded inspection might yield a lower rating. The principal, Janine Kellett, leads the school, which is part of the Great Academies Education Trust, overseen by CEO Brendan Loughran and a board of trustees chaired by Paul Jones.
Students at Middleton Technology School report a strong sense of belonging, which contributes to their happiness. They appreciate the friendships formed and the opportunity to meet peers with similar interests, particularly during break times. The school environment is generally calm and orderly, with most students attentive during lessons. However, some students struggle with motivation, impacting their learning success.
The school offers various extracurricular activities, allowing students to explore different talents and interests. Events such as annual performances and sports competitions are popular, alongside an electives program that deepens subject exploration. The school maintains high aspirations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. It is actively addressing the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly concerning attendance rates, and is working to enhance its curriculum. However, there is a need for more consistent delivery of the curriculum by staff, as some students do not achieve their full potential.
The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, with a clear identification of essential knowledge for students. Most teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and effectively explain new concepts. Nonetheless, some teachers lack the necessary pedagogical understanding to deliver the curriculum effectively, leading to inconsistencies in learning activities. While some teachers successfully identify and address gaps in students' knowledge, others do not adequately check for understanding before progressing, resulting in knowledge gaps for some students.
The school effectively identifies students with special educational needs and provides staff with relevant information to support these students. However, inconsistencies in curriculum delivery can hinder the achievement of these students. Although the school is taking steps to meet the needs of all students with special educational needs, further monitoring is required to ensure the effectiveness of these actions.
Reading is recognized as a barrier to learning for many students, but the school's approach to supporting struggling readers, particularly in key stage four, is underdeveloped. While some students receive expert support to improve their reading skills, others do not receive timely and focused assistance, which affects their learning outcomes. The school must enhance its support mechanisms for these students to ensure they develop confidence and fluency in reading.
Most students adhere to school rules and display courteous behavior, although a minority struggle with self-regulation. The school is addressing this issue effectively, as evidenced by a significant reduction in truancy rates. Recent initiatives have involved all staff in promoting attendance, and while some groups still have lower attendance rates, the school's efforts are beginning to show positive results.
The school provides a suitable personal development program, covering essential topics such as healthy relationships and career guidance, which helps students make informed choices for their future. The trustees and governors are committed to improving the school and have a clear understanding of the necessary steps to ensure a high-quality education for students. Staff generally feel supported regarding their workload and appreciate the focused training provided.
The safeguarding arrangements at Middleton Technology School are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all students. The school is aware of the areas needing improvement, particularly in teacher training and assessment strategies, to enhance the overall educational experience for its students.
