‘Clear evidence of improvements’ at Heap Bridge Primary, say Ofsted

Heap Bridge Primary School has been told by Ofsted that it is improving well, has a number of good features and no longer requires significant improvements.

Inspectors visited the school on Heap Brow last month and concluded that the school is ‘satisfactory’ with strong leadership and lots of investment in pupils learning and development. Their report said all children are equally valued, well cared for and enjoy lessons at the school.

Inspectors were particularly impressed by the above average attendance, positive attitudes and good behaviour displayed by the pupils.

New Headteacher Marcus Cockcroft, who took over last September, was praised for his decisive leadership, maintaining high staff morale and driving forward improvements in the quality of teaching at the school. Support from his senior team was also singled out as an instrumental factor in the progress made.

Inspectors praised the school's assessment systems and the progress made in the Early Years Foundation Stage. Staff training and changes to classroom practice were deemed to be making a visible difference. They found that academic guidance has improved and pupils know their targets and how to improve their work further. The wide range of additional activities, which add interest and enjoyment and support pupils’ personal development well were acknowledged. Ofsted were pleased that pupils have a good knowledge of how to stay safe and healthy.

Having made satisfactory progress in addressing all areas identified for improvement at the last inspection, Ofsted said they are confident that Heap Bridge Primary has satisfactory capacity to secure further improvements and gives value for money.

However, inspectors noted variations in progress made by different year groups, and indicated that although progress is satisfactory overall, it is not consistent across the school. They also want to see opportunities for more exciting and challenging ways for children to improve their numeracy and literacy skills through further curriculum development.

Headteacher, Mr Cockcroft said he was pleased with the report and the acknowledgement that the school has ‘turned a corner’: “This is a very pleasing report, and a reflection of the hard work done by everyone. I only joined in September but in that time I have been particularly impressed with the dedication of the staff and children.

"Parents have been very supportive of the school throughout and have extended a warm welcome to me as the new head, which was reflected in this inspection. I am delighted that the report reflects the warm family ethos of the school and the care that goes into the school’s work.

"We are now looking forward to building on this report to ensure Heap Bridge provides the highest quality of education and opportunities for its pupils. The report has identified areas for further improvement, so we will be continuing to develop. The staff and I will be working hard to ensure this inspection report is built on.”

Irene Davidson, Cabinet Member for Children, Schools and Families, said she was delighted with the news, and pleased for pupils, staff and parents alike: “Everyone has worked hard as a team to bring about this amazing turnaround. It won’t end here, but this has given the school a boost to keep on improving.Rochdale Borough Council are delighted that Ofsted has given Heap Bridge a vote of confidence. We have a good track record in raising standards, but we’re not complacent.”

The full report can be downloaded from the school website www.heapbridge.co.uk.