St James’ CofE Primary School Gorton

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is a good school Leaders' passion for learning, and the unwavering commitment of the trustees, have been fundamental in driving forward rapid improvements at St James' Church of England Primary School since it became an academy in March 2015. Leaders are highly successful in removing barriers to pupils' learning in order to raise pupils' aspirations, and improve their life chances.

The quality of teaching is good. This is underpinned by teachers' strong subject knowledge and the positive relationships between teachers and pupils. However, at times, there are some variations between classes.

The 2017 test results show that pupils' outcomes in key stage 2 i...mproved markedly in almost every subject. However, not a high enough proportion of pupils reached the expected standards in the grammar, punctuation and spelling test. Disadvantaged pupils made better progress than other pupils nationally in 2017.

However, although improving, progress is slower for disadvantaged pupils in writing at key stage 1. Middle leaders have the same passion and determination as senior leaders to continually improve outcomes for pupils. They have developed a curriculum that is exciting and creative, igniting the interests of pupils through a range of opportunities provided.

Children in early years benefit from outstanding quality teaching within an environment that strongly nurtures, excites and stimulates them as learners. As a result, they make rapid progress from low starting points. Governors are highly skilled.

They use their expertise very effectively to hold leaders to account, and to ensure that the high standards of education are maintained. Pupils who attend the special educational needs (SEN) and/or disabilities resource base make strong progress from their starting points. Highly skilled staff meet their needs extremely effectively.

Pupils, staff, governors, and parents and carers are extremely proud of their school. One pupil said, 'We know we are the most important thing about St James' School.'

Information about this school

This is an average-sized primary school.

The majority of pupils are from a range of different minority ethnic backgrounds. The proportion of pupils who speak English as an additional language is above average. The proportion of pupils supported through the pupil premium is well above average.

The proportion of pupils who have SEN and/or disabilities is well above average. The proportion of pupils who are supported by an education, health and care plan is well above average. The school operates an on-site resource provision for up to seven pupils who have autistic spectrum disorder and/or speech and language impairments.

The school is part of a MAT. The school's governing body is responsible for curriculum and standards. All other aspects of governance are overseen by the MAT board of trustees.