We are very proud of our inclusive and innovative school and all of our fantastic pupils, staff, parents, and community. Stanley Grove is a Bright Futures Educational Trust school, working together with a group of schools across the North West to provide the very best education for all of our pupils. Being a part of Bright Futures Educational Trust means that our pupils and staff can access resources from across the Trust’s schools, continually challenging and supporting each other in our Multi Academy Trust.
We have a rich curriculum offer that explores both the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful and well-rounded individuals who can find their way through the world and positively contribute to society. We actively promote and nurture the curiosity and questioning nature of pupils using Philosophy for Children as a way of exploring the curriculum. We develop the professional awareness and curiosity of our teachers through our unique approach to teaching and learning development known as ‘Reflective Inquiry’ as well as exploring a wide range of current educational research. This is just a simple way of understanding what connects our schools and provides a meaningful foundation for authentic collaborative partnerships, working together on the same underlying principles. We understand that by having common bonds and through developing meaningful relationships which we can continually grow, develop and improve together. We place a great deal of emphasis on developing our children as Independent, Collaborative, Inquisitive, Reflective, Creative, Resilient, Happy, Curious, Confident, Risk-takers.
We have many collaborative partnerships both within Bright Futures and outside of our organization. For example, we are an active member of a national network of schools known as Challenge Partners, a network of over 400 schools. We have strong links with Manchester University and other Educational institutes and we work closely with the Manchester Museum and Whitworth Gallery as well as many other partners.
We are very proud of our school, our learners, and the vibrant community we serve. At Stanley Grove, we believe in developing skills that will enable our pupils to be happy, independent, and confident. Our curriculum gives collaborative learning opportunities as well as enrichment opportunities that widen children’s horizons and raise aspirations. Lessons are planned to give children the chance to be curious, reflective, and take risks. This allows them to develop resilience. Our staff is also supported to be reflective to ensure that we are always improving and learning ourselves. Wellbeing for both our pupils and staff is at the heart of our curriculum Mindfulness and Thrive Time are just two of how we support children to have good mental health. The wide variety of creative projects that we run in partnership with our local businesses and the University of Manchester, provide our community with free family fun throughout the year.
Our recent building project was completed this year and we are now welcoming visitors through our new entrance on Parry Rd. Pupils across the school are enjoying their fantastic classrooms in our new extension, and refurbishment of our existing building. We also have access to our new Learning Research Centre, studio, dining hall, shared learning spaces, and 3G sports pitch. Over Summer 2017 the final external works were completed, and we now have fully landscaped school grounds boasting lots of new play and sports equipment for the children to enjoy.
Stanley Grove Primary Academy is an inclusive school where all pupils are encouraged to do their best and to prepare themselves for successful lives. All the opportunities provided to children at Stanley Grove are designed to help them grow into confident and happy life-long learners. Our pupils follow the Stanley Code. We expect everyone in our school community to know, remember and understand the school code. It is expected that they will be regularly referred to in an age-appropriate way.
As a Rights Respecting School, we use the articles to link our positive messages regarding the behavior we would like to see the children display. At the beginning of each academic year, as part of the SEAL ‘New Beginnings’ unit, the class teacher will consult with their class to revisit the school code. The code will be displayed in the classroom in a form that is accessible to the children. Class teachers use the PBIS (Positive behavior intervention and support) strategies to promote good behavior in class. These focus on the use of affirmative language and the use of praise. Stanley Grove Primary Academy is passionate about changing behavior and not simply controlling it using punitive measures.
Our school has a joint Governing Body with Rushbrook Primary Academy. It exists to support and challenge the staff at the school and to ensure that our children get an outstanding education that they deserve. It is made up of parents, staff, members of the community, and other co-opted Governors with expertise and experience in education or related fields. We meet termly as a Full Governing Body and several sub-committees meet between those times. There will be chances to meet us at various events throughout the year.
Educational Visits and learning outside the classroom are an integral part of life at Stanley Grove Primary Academy, furthering the education of the pupils, we consider it vital that we maintain a broad and balanced curriculum. This includes ensuring that pupils have first-hand experiences and have a chance to see and take part in activities outside the classroom. We are part of a vibrant and lively community and we encourage all classes to take part in that community as well as inviting them into our school. Our school grounds provide rich opportunities that can engage all pupils effectively in understanding sustainability and the environment. Visits outside of school, including residential opportunities, are built into our curriculum and enhance children’s learning.
