Poplar Street Primary School, located in Audenshaw, Manchester, has recently undergone an inspection that highlighted its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on September 21 and 22, 2022, and the school has not been previously inspected under the Education Act 2005. The school is characterized by a welcoming and nurturing environment where pupils feel happy and safe. Staff members greet students warmly each morning, fostering positive relationships that contribute to a strong sense of community. Pupils express enjoyment in attending the school, noting that their friends and staff look after them well.
The leadership team at Poplar Street Primary School demonstrates high ambition for the achievement of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, as well as disadvantaged students. The quality of education provided is commendable, with pupils generally learning well due to the high-quality academic, social, and emotional support offered by the staff. Teachers maintain clear expectations for behavior, resulting in calm and orderly classrooms that facilitate effective learning. Pupils are motivated to do their best in lessons, and any incidents of bullying are addressed promptly and effectively by teachers.
Pupils at the school have a well-developed understanding of diversity and inclusivity, recognizing that everyone is different and that all backgrounds are welcomed. They take pride in their responsibilities, such as serving as librarians or members of the ecocouncil, and they enjoy a variety of sports and games during lunchtime. The curriculum is ambitious, broad, and balanced, aligning with national standards. It is designed to help pupils extend their subject-specific vocabulary across different areas of study.
While leaders have identified key knowledge for pupils to learn and remember, there are some subjects where the progression of learning could be improved. In certain areas, the next steps in learning are not as clearly defined, which can hinder some pupils from fully grasping and retaining knowledge. This is partly due to insufficient opportunities for pupils to revisit previous learning, which is essential for securing new knowledge.
In the early years, children receive strong support in developing their reading skills. Teachers effectively introduce phonics in a logical manner, ensuring that children are engaged in a variety of activities that promote early reading knowledge. By the end of key stage one, most pupils are able to read confidently. Throughout the school, there are ample opportunities for pupils to read and listen to stories, enhancing their vocabulary and comprehension skills.
The school has effective systems in place for assessing pupils' learning, allowing teachers to identify those who require additional support. Leaders gather a range of information to understand how well the curriculum is helping pupils build their knowledge. Pupils with special educational needs are accurately identified, and the school provides tailored support to ensure they can access the same curriculum as their peers.
Pupils conduct themselves well in lessons and throughout the school, demonstrating good listening skills and concentration. Attendance is regular, and children in the early years learn important social skills such as sharing and taking turns. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including swimming and after-school clubs, which pupils enjoy. They are taught about safety and health, fostering an understanding of fairness and equality.
Staff members appreciate the support from the leadership team, which considers their workload when implementing new initiatives. The school community is well-supported, and governors effectively hold leaders accountable for the quality of education provided. The safeguarding arrangements are robust, with staff well-trained to protect pupils from harm. Overall, Poplar Street Primary School is a place where pupils thrive academically and socially, supported by a dedicated team of staff and a strong community ethos.
