Beal Vale Primary School, located in Shaw, Oldham, Greater Manchester, has recently undergone an inspection on the 28th and 29th of February 2024. The overall effectiveness of the school has been rated as good, reflecting a positive environment for learning and development. The headteacher, Greg Ball, leads the school, which is part of the Crompton House Church of England Multi-Academy Trust. This affiliation means that the school benefits from the support and resources provided by the trust, overseen by CEO Karl Newell and chaired by Victoria Musgrave.
Pupils at Beal Vale Primary School express pride in being part of a nurturing and family-oriented community. They feel welcomed regardless of their background, and the school fosters a culture of inclusivity. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable about the pupils and their families, contributing to a supportive atmosphere. The school has high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. This ambition is reflected in the pupils' achievements across various subjects, where they typically meet or exceed expectations.
Behaviour at the school is commendable, with most pupils demonstrating politeness and a genuine care for one another. They feel safe and are able to navigate the school environment in an orderly manner. The school has established effective support systems for vulnerable families, ensuring they receive timely assistance when needed. Beyond academics, pupils engage in a rich array of experiences that promote life skills, such as sewing, first aid, and British Sign Language. The school also offers a variety of clubs and trips, which pupils enjoy and benefit from.
Attendance is recognized as crucial for learning, and many pupils have high aspirations for their future careers. They leave Beal Vale as well-rounded individuals, well-prepared for the next stages of their education. The curriculum is ambitious and well-organized, catering for the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs. The school teaches the full range of national curriculum subjects, with a clear progression of knowledge and skills from early years through to Year 6. However, some subjects are still in the early stages of implementation, which affects the consistency of pupils' progress in those areas.
Teachers at Beal Vale Primary School are provided with subject-specific training and resources, enabling them to deliver the curriculum effectively. They typically explain new concepts clearly and employ various strategies to assess pupils' understanding. Nevertheless, the school is refining its assessment strategies in certain subjects, which can sometimes hinder teachers' ability to quickly identify and address gaps in pupils' knowledge.
Reading is a significant focus at the school, with children in the Reception class immersed in stories, rhymes, and poems to develop their language skills. The phonics programme is delivered effectively, and pupils who struggle receive the necessary support to ensure they learn essential skills. By the end of Key Stage 1, most pupils are confident and fluent readers. Older pupils enjoy reading widely and discussing their favorite authors and books, with ample opportunities to engage with literature throughout the school day.
Pupils with special educational needs are identified promptly, and teachers adapt their teaching methods to support these pupils effectively. This approach allows most pupils with special educational needs to learn alongside their peers. The school promotes tolerance and respect among pupils, who understand the importance of diversity and personal safety, including online safety and healthy living. Leadership roles, such as school councillors and health champions, are embraced by pupils, fostering a sense of responsibility and community involvement.
The trustees and local governing body provide robust support and challenge to the school, maintaining an accurate understanding of its strengths and areas for improvement. Staff feel valued and supported, appreciating the consideration given to their workload. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
In summary, Beal Vale Primary School is a good school that provides a supportive and inclusive environment for its pupils. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in the implementation of certain subjects and assessment strategies, the school demonstrates a commitment to high standards and the well-being of its students.
