School’s curriculum criticised over "inadequate" Ofsted inspection

A primary school in Rochdale has vowed to get back on track after an Ofsted inspection in which they were described as ‘inadequate’.

Spotland Primary School previously held a ‘good’ rating with the education watchdog before inspectors came knocking at the beginning of July. Academic success, low aspirations and a poor curriculum were all aspects highlighted by inspectors as key weaknesses for the school.

The Edmund Street site was rated as ‘inadequate’ in the categories of education qualities; leadership and management; and early years provision.

Personal development was rated as ‘good’ and the behaviour and development category was deemed as ‘requires improvement’, the report outlined.

The inspection report read: “Pupils’ personal development is fostered well. However, the same is not true for their academic success.

“The school does not have high enough aspirations for pupils’ achievement. This includes children in the early years.

“Pupils, particularly those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), are not helped to achieve well. As a result, many pupils are not well prepared for the next stage of their education.

“Pupils are not receiving the education to which they are entitled.”

Despite the criticisms in the report, published at the end of September, inspectors praised the school’s atmosphere. Lead inspector Sheena Clark alongside Shoab Uddin and Ros Munro highlighted that ‘warm relationships lie at the heart of this school’.

The report goes on to say how a strong sense of community and kinship is displayed by the students. Examples of this community spirit are detailed as raising money for charities, donating to a food bank and litter picking in the nearby area.

The school has been subject to a change in leadership this year, with a new headteacher coming into the post just weeks before the inspection took place.

Ofsted told the leadership team that they need to implement a better curriculum; provide guidance to staff regarding SEND children; and improve attendance rates.

Headteacher of Spotland Primary School, Emma Dunn, said: “I joined the school six weeks before the inspection after the previous head teacher retired. Additionally, the chair and vice-chair of governors were appointed two weeks before so we are a very new team.

“On arrival, it was apparent there were areas that required development and I immediately looked to make improvements. We were pleased that Ofsted recognised our children are happy and safe in our school.

“We have a clear plan as to how we will make the improvements needed at the school.

“I would like to say to parents that my staff, the governors and the local authority are totally committed to turning around the school and providing our children with the very best education possible here at Spotland Primary School.”

A spokesperson from Rochdale Borough Council added: “Although the Ofsted judgements are disappointing, we have every confidence in the leadership at Spotland to bring about rapid improvement at the school.”

George Lythgoe, Local Democracy Reporter