Woodlands Primary Academy is a welcoming and happy school located in Oldham, Greater Manchester. The school has high expectations for its pupils, and staff are dedicated to maximizing each child's potential. Since the predecessor school was inspected in 2016, significant improvements have been made. Pupils express that they feel safe and are well-behaved, contributing to a positive learning environment where disruptions are rare. They enjoy their learning and are eager to assist one another. Instances of bullying are infrequent, and pupils trust the adults in the school to address any issues that arise.
Parents and carers report that their children are happy and settled at the school, with many appreciating the positive changes implemented by new leadership. Community engagement is strong, with pupils participating in activities such as helping at a local care home and enjoying various educational trips. Older students take on responsibilities, such as assisting younger pupils with reading, fostering a sense of community and support.
The school excels in fostering teamwork among staff, leading to high morale and effective training that enhances teaching and leadership skills. The curriculum is well-planned in most subjects, clearly outlining the key knowledge and skills pupils should acquire. This structured approach has resulted in pupils achieving well across various subjects, with Year 6 students making progress comparable to their peers nationally in reading, writing, and mathematics. However, the curriculum for a few subjects, including art and design and design and technology, lacks clarity, making it challenging for teachers to convey what pupils should learn as they progress through the school.
In mathematics, the curriculum is effectively organized in key stage two, but further development is needed in Years one and two to ensure that learning objectives are clearly defined. Reading is a strong focus throughout the school, with pupils becoming confident readers who enjoy literature. Teachers effectively teach phonics, enabling most pupils to meet the expected standards by the end of Year one. Support is provided for those who join the school later or who struggle with reading, ensuring they catch up quickly.
The early years curriculum is well-structured, promoting curiosity and essential skills across all learning areas. Children are encouraged to explore their surroundings, and the learning environment is rich with resources that stimulate their desire to learn. Staff are adept at supporting pupils with limited communication skills, helping them to progress rapidly.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive good support, with well-trained teachers and teaching assistants ensuring they achieve alongside their peers. Behaviour is commendable, and the school environment is inclusive, with new pupils integrating smoothly into the community. The school has successfully improved attendance rates, which are now in line with national averages.
Governors play an effective role, providing a balance of challenge and support to the school's leadership. Staff feel valued, and their workload is manageable. Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff trained to recognize and address potential risks to pupils. Overall, Woodlands Primary Academy demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education, fostering a supportive community, and ensuring the well-being of its pupils. However, there is a need for continued development in specific subjects and areas of the mathematics curriculum to enhance the overall educational experience.
