Harpurhey Alternative Provision School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 29 October 2024

Pupils benefit from the calm and respectful environment that exists at the school. They value the positive working relationships they have with staff, who care for them well. Most pupils live up to the high expectations the school has of their behaviour and conduct. Pupils are happy. Most pupils settle in quickly. This is because the school works closely with pupils' home schools, along with parents and carers, to provide them with a robust and welcoming induction programme. Although the school has high aspirations for pupils' achievement, some pupils do not achieve as well as they should. This is because the proprietor has not ensured that they benefit sufficiently well from the school's academic curriculum and personal development programme. Pupils have few opportunities to cultivate their talents and interests. This means the school's provision for pupils' personal development is limited. Nevertheless, pupils enjoy visits to the community gym where they take part in fitness activities. During social time, pupils play well together. For example, they enjoy taking part in football. The school has organised visits to local places of interest, for example Manchester Museum and the Cathedral. Pupils take an active role in improving the school. For example, they have developed the school uniform and rewards system.

What the school should improve

• In a few subjects, the school has not identified precisely what they want pupils to know and remember. As a result, pupils do not develop the breadth and depth of knowledge and understanding they should. The school should identify the key knowledge across all subjects that pupils should learn so they are well prepared for each stage of their education.
• On occasion, the school is not quick enough to rectify the gaps and misconceptions in some pupils' knowledge. This means these pupils move on to new learning before they are ready. The school should ensure staff address thoroughly pupils' misunderstandings before introducing new knowledge so they build their knowledge securely over time.
• Some pupils do not receive the support they need to quickly become confident and fluent readers. When this happens, these pupils struggle to access some parts of the school's curriculum. The school should implement a suitable reading catch up programme so pupils can achieve well.
• Some pupils are not provided with a broad enough range of opportunities to develop their talents and interests. At times, this hinders their wider development. The school should ensure that pupils routinely access a programme of activities that builds their confidence and resilience and helps them to fully achieve their aspirations.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)