AN ASHTON-UNDER-LYNE primary school has wasted no time in the school year to start celebrating.
For St Peter’s C of E has aced its latest Ofsted inspection, achieving a strong standard in four of the seven categories and making the grade in the other three.
The Oxford Street establishment may serve what is seen as one of Tameside’s most multi-cultural areas.
But inspectors, led by Dianne Holcroft, found: “Rich diversity creates a strong sense of belonging at this school.
“Pupils feel respected, valued and safe. Pupils have confidence in staff and know that any concerns will be acted upon swiftly and effectively.
“Bullying is uncommon and on the rare occasions it occurs, staff resolve issues promptly. Consequently, pupils feel secure and are able to thrive, both socially and academically.
“Many pupils face significant barriers to learning. Most start school with knowledge and skills below those typically expected for their age. Many speak English as an additional language.
Staff know pupils well and provide carefully tailored support to help them overcome these challenges. As a result, pupils develop confidence and resilience and experience success in their learning.
“Disadvantaged pupils achieve particularly well. In this school, where most pupils are disadvantaged, they achieve at least as well as other pupils nationally and often above in reading and mathematics.”
In the attendance and behaviour section, inspectors praised St Peter’s leaders for, ‘making it everyone’s responsibility.’
They add: “They monitor attendance closely, identify patterns and work with families to address any barriers.
“Behaviour reflects the school’s high expectations and positive relationships. Pupil rarely need reminders about their behaviour. “
For leadership and governance, inspectors noted: “Leaders have a clear understanding of the school’s context and priorities.
“The school’s vision underpins decision-making and helps leaders maintain a clear focus on improving outcomes and opportunities for pupils.”
In personal development and wellbeing, the way teachers adapt to cultural differences was praised.
The report states: “Pupils learn about safety, relationships, healthy lifestyles and different cultures.
“The school’s ‘mustard seed vision’ underpins this work and helps pupils develop a strong understanding of respect, kindness and service to others.
“Through collective worship, opportunities for reflection and discussions about current issues, pupils learn how to contribute positively to their communities.
“Pupils value opportunities to learn about different faiths, cultures and backgrounds. These experiences help them to understand and appreciate different viewpoints.
“Leaders track participation carefully and remove barriers where necessary. As a result, disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs and/or disabilities take part fully.
“Pupils understand fundamental British values well. They talk confidently about democracy, individual liberty and the rule of law.
“Experiences such as parliament week, visits to the Houses of Parliament and work with magistrates help bring this learning to life.”
Such praise for St Peter’s was well received by headteacher John Wilson, who praised the collective effort.
He said: “We are incredibly proud of our journey and the progress we have made as a school community.
“None of this would have been possible without the commitment and support of our pupils, staff, governors, parents and carers and the wider St Peter’s community.
“Our recent Ofsted inspection recognised strong standards in achievement, attendance and behaviour, leadership and governance and personal development and wellbeing.
“Inspectors also highlighted that our pupils feel safe, valued and included and are proud to belong to St Peter’s.
“This recognition is a reflection of our whole school community and the collective effort, care and ambition that continue to drive our school forward.
“We are excited for the next chapter of our journey together.”