St. Paul's 'outstanding', says Ofsted

An Ofsted inspection has confirmed that St Paul's C of E Primary School, Withington, South Manchester "fully achieves the aims of its mission statement, caring about learning, learning about caring."

Headteacher Don Berry is particularly pleased that the report recognises not only the "outstanding care" and "exceptionally positive relationships" within the school but also confirms that "standards are well above the national average by the time pupils leave in English, mathematics and science. All pupils, including those with learning difficulties and/or disabilities and those for whom English is an additional language, make excellent progress: achievement is first-rate."

It explains that "the progress pupils make throughout the school is the result of outstanding teaching that caters thoroughly for all pupils' needs."

At the same time "the pupils demonstrate a high degree of self-confidence and self-esteem which enables them to behave outstandingly well and really enjoy the wide range of opportunities the school provides".

Mr Berry said: "It has been a pleasure to be headteacher at St Paul's School for the last 17 years, the last three in our beautiful new school building. In fact it is a privilege to work with such wonderful staff and children. However, I know that, as the report recognises, the underlying strength of the school is that we are never satisfied by our performance and that because of that it is in a position of considerable strength to improve even further."

Councillor Sheila Newman, Executive Member for Children's Services for Manchester City Council, said: "This is a wonderful achievement by St Paul's School. Staff and pupils must be really proud to have their high standards and excellent relationships recognised by Ofsted.'"

Media contact:

Dave Hulme, tel 234-4610, m 07720 936073