Caring, safe and happy at St Andrew's

Date published: 13 December 2011

A primary school in Radcliffe has been praised by education watchdogs for being a caring, safe and happy place to learn.

Inspectors from Ofsted said St Andrew’s CE Primary School also had overwhelming support from parents for how well their children were looked after.

“St Andrew’s school takes good care of its pupils and enables them to progress well in aspects of their personal development and well-being,” said the inspector.

“Pupils’ enjoyment of school is fostered by a strong ethos and staff who provide good levels of care, guidance and support. In particular, adults’ care has a good impact on pupils new to the school, those pupils who have special educational needs and/or disabilities and those whose circumstances have made them vulnerable. This is also evident in the very positive views expressed by pupils, parents and carers and the high level of attendance.”

In 2011, most of the pupils leaving the school in Year 6 gained the expected level for their age in both English and mathematics. Inspectors cited the pupils’ good behaviour and the way they got along together and showed positive attitudes to learning.

Pupils said they felt safe and behave well in school, and are keen to take on roles and responsibilities such as house captains and Harvest celebrations.

Teaching and curriculum was satisfactory and met requirements. Children settled very well in the Foundation stage, and made a positive start to their schooling.

“The overwhelming majority of parents and carers are very supportive of the school,” added Ofsted. “They agree that their children enjoy school, are kept safe and that the school is led and managed effectively.”

Pippa Jackson-Maitland, head teacher at St Andrew’s, said: “We are pleased that Ofsted has recognised the hard work carried out by the school and the positive attitude of the children and their parents, who are very supportive. We will implement the inspector’s recommendations to ensure our school improves further and remains a safe and happy place for our youngsters to study and grow up in.”