St Mary's Catholic Voluntary Academy, located in Marple Bridge, Stockport, has recently undergone its first inspection since becoming an academy. The inspection took place on December 5 and 6, 2023, and the overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good. The quality of education, leadership and management, and early years provision were also rated as good, while the behaviour and attitudes of pupils, as well as their personal development, were rated as outstanding.
The headteacher, John Nish, leads the school, which is part of the St Ralph Sherwin Catholic Multi-Academy Trust. The trust is overseen by a board of trustees, chaired by Sarah Noon, and the CEO is Kevin Gritton. The school has not been previously inspected under the current framework, as it was exempt from routine inspections until November 2020.
St Mary's is characterized by a welcoming and nurturing environment where pupils are polite, well-mannered, and eager to learn. The school emphasizes the 'St Mary’s Way,' which guides pupils on how to behave in lessons and throughout the school. The behaviour of pupils is exemplary, contributing to a calm atmosphere conducive to learning. High expectations are set for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities, and they are well-supported in their learning journey.
Reading is a central focus of the curriculum, with a phonics program starting in the Reception class. Staff are well-trained to teach children how to link letters and sounds, and parents are involved in the reading process to ensure their children develop a love for books. Regular assessments help identify pupils who need additional support, ensuring they become fluent readers by the time they reach key stage two.
The curriculum for pupils in Years 1 to 6 is ambitious and thoughtfully designed, with connections made to the local area through various trips. Teachers regularly check pupils' understanding and retention of knowledge, leading to good overall achievement. However, in some subjects, there are instances where pupils are not given enough opportunities to deepen their learning, which can limit their progress.
The school effectively identifies the needs of pupils with SEND and adapts the curriculum accordingly, allowing these pupils to learn alongside their peers. The school also collaborates with external agencies to provide necessary support.
Pupils exhibit highly positive attitudes towards learning, demonstrating respect for their teachers and peers. Strong routines are established from the early years, and pupils behave impeccably throughout the school. They engage in various extracurricular activities, which help them develop their talents and interests.
The school prioritizes personal development, teaching pupils about healthy relationships and safety. They learn to respect differences and engage with the wider world through lessons on various cultures and religions. Pupils are encouraged to take on leadership roles that benefit the school community, such as eco-defenders and community custodians.
Parents and carers hold the school in high regard, appreciating the caring approach of the staff. The local governing board and trust provide strong support to staff and pupils, ensuring that the school’s strengths and weaknesses are well understood. The trust invests in staff development, allowing teachers to maintain a reasonable workload while enhancing their skills.
The safeguarding arrangements at St Mary's are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school is encouraged to provide more opportunities for pupils to refine and deepen their knowledge in certain subjects to enhance their overall achievement.
