“Truly amazing school” celebrates its continued ‘outstanding’ rating from Ofsted

All Souls CE Primary School celebrate continued \'outstanding\' status following Ofsted inspection

A primary school in Heywood has celebrated their continued ‘outstanding’ status following their first Ofsted inspection in 13 years.

All Souls CE Primary School was given an outstanding rating from the education watchdog in 2011. Because of this rating, until November 2020, the school was exempt from another routine inspection.

The recently published report documenting the December 2023 inspection praised the school as a “happy learning community where pupils thrive”.

The Rye Street site scored outstanding in each category set out by Ofsted: quality of education; behaviour and attitudes; personal development; leadership and management; and early years provision. Inspectors Charlotte Oles and Phil Dickson applauded the “strong climate for learning” that enables all pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities, to excel. 

The Ofsted report read: “Beginning in the early years, the school has meticulously designed an ambitious curriculum that equips pupils with a deep and rich body of subject knowledge. Extensive careers information and enrichment opportunities are woven seamlessly through the curriculum to raise pupils’ aspirations and enthusiasm for future learning.

“Teachers develop strong expertise in how pupils learn. This enables them to design consistently effective learning activities that help to deepen pupils’ understanding of concepts. 

“The strength in the school’s curriculum design enables teachers to know precisely what pupils should learn, and how it connects to their previous knowledge. This empowers teachers to accurately pinpoint and swiftly address any gaps in pupils’ understanding. 

“As a result, pupils build up an impressive and comprehensive body of knowledge over time.”

It went on to describe how the love of reading “permeates the school” with many students taking home their favourite books to read and visiting the well-stocked library. Inspectors added that staff are vigilant and quick to respond to any struggling pupils who may need more support with their learning.

Headteacher, Gaynor Rennie and co-headteacher Lisa Pearson said: “We would like to thank all pupils, staff, parents and governors for their ongoing hard work, dedication and commitment towards helping All Souls’ CE to become the truly amazing school that is. Considering just how rigorous the new inspection framework is, it makes us even more proud that no areas were identified for improvement.”

George Lythgoe, Local Democracy Reporter