A STALYBRIDGE primary school where pupils ‘get off to a flying start’ has been praised in its latest Ofsted report.
St Paul’s C of E, on Huddersfield Road, maintained its ranking of good following this latest visit by inspectors.
And they were in no doubt about the platform it provides for those who go there.
In a report, they state: “Children get off to a flying start in the early years.
“Pupils are high priority in this school. They enjoy attending this school and enter with broad smiles on their faces.
“The values are the beating heart of the school. They permeate throughout all aspects of school life. This helps pupils to understand how to treat others and to make sensible choices.
“Pupils appreciate the variety of activities that the school offers. They understand that this helps them to experience ‘life in all its fullness.’
“The school knows its children well. It has set out a carefully considered curriculum and ensures that activities are purposeful.
“Children learn how to use the classroom and to work together respectfully. They participate positively in all areas of learning
“Staff use every opportunity to talk to the children about their learning. This helps to challenge children’s thinking and understanding.”
St Paul’s, part of the Chester Diocesan Academies Trust, was singled out for the way it puts reading at the top of its to do list.
The report adds: “A love of reading is promoted throughout the school. The school prioritises reading.
“Regular checks of what pupils can read mean that pupils at risk of falling behind in the phonics programme are identified promptly.
“Pupils read books that match the sounds that they know. This helps them to develop into confident and fluent readers. Older pupils have a good grasp of different authors.”
The way the school prepares pupils for later life was also praised, with inspectors continuing: “The personal development offer helps to prepare pupils well for their future life in modern Britain.
“Pupils understand different faiths and religions and they celebrate the differences between themselves and others.
“They take ownership of raising money for different charities. Pupils have positive attitudes to school and their learning.
“Trustees and members of the local governing body know the school well and provide appropriate support and challenge.”
St Paul’s, whose headteacher is Simon Wright, was told to ‘undertake thorough checks of pupils’ understanding to ensure that pupils progress smoothly through these curriculum areas.’
However, it showed it has done the work to maintain its grading and was told its next inspection will take place in approximately five years.