Oldham school rated highly by Ofsted in new report

Freehold Community Academy on Sidmouth Street teaches more than 400 children between the ages of three to 11.

The primary school converted into an academy in 2015 and has been deemed a 'good' school by the education watchdog ever since.

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However, in a routine but ungraded inspection of the premises in October and November this year, Ofsted inspector Rebecca Sharples said the academy could climb up a rank to 'outstanding'.

Ms Sharples had plenty of praise for the provision in her report.

She described the academy as a "special place" to learn where pupils are "happy", thriving and "have a voice".

The youngsters were commended for their "impeccable" behaviour as the inspector noted they are "polite" and "courteous" to staff, friends and visitors.

They are also "eager to learn" and speak "enthusiastically" about their learning and what the school has to offer.

Ms Sharples added: "The school's values of honesty, resilience, respect, integrity and empathy are consistently modelled by pupils and staff in their everyday actions."

Staff at the school were another key highlight during Ms Sharples inspection.

She found teachers "expect the best" of the children and forge positive relationships with the students from early years onwards.

The curriculum was also praised for being "exciting", "aspirational" and "ambitious" for all students, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).

Freehold Academy has "meticulously defined" the knowledge and skills its pupils should learn in each subject, the report continued.

As a result, the children remembered "in-depth" what they had learned and were keen to talk about their subjects with the inspector.

Reading, languages and communication are also highlighted in the report as positives at the academy.

The inspector found the school delivers a phonic programme "with expertise" and treats reading and communication as a "priority" from early years- and has a "wealth of diverse" books for pupils across the school.

Children who struggle to read also receive "well-tailored support" from staff.

Ms Sharples said this ensures the pupils make a strong start to their learning in nursery and that they become "extremely well prepared for secondary school" when they finish their primary education.

The love of reading embedded in the school means many of the students read independently and some have even written to their favourite authors.

Beyond the curriculum, the inspector revealed the school ensures pupils benefit from a "vast array of opportunities" which helps them develop confidence and resilience.

Examples of this included visits to local landmarks and contributions pupils have made to the community by supporting charities and creating sensory gardens.

They also learn about the importance of respect through projects such as singing at local care homes and organising school events which celebrate the beliefs and cultures of others.

In addition, pupils value being able to share their opinions with staff about how the school is run and what they would like to see in the future.

Meanwhile, teachers said they were "proud" to work at the school and that leaders are considerate towards their workloads.

Parents and carers shared similar positive views about the school and the education it provides.

As the inspection was ungraded, Ms Sharples has suggested Ofsted conduct a new graded inspection, which typically takes place within the next two years, as she believes the academy would receive a higher grade of 'outstanding'.

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