St Matthew’s Primary School in Chadderton celebrates inclusivity with inspiring heroes and a ‘good’ Ofsted

Students are surrounded by images of inspiring figureheads and classes are named in honour of trailblazers, including MOBO, BRIT and Ivor Novello Award-winning grime artist Stormzy, Michelle Obama, former EastEnders star Rose Ayling-Ellis – who, in 2021, became the first deaf contestant to win the 19th series of Strictly Come Dancing.

Tim’s message to the children of the UK, “Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do anything”, is among the quotes on display on classroom doors, along with “We are all equal to each other.”

Tim Peake is the first British astronaut to do a spacewalk and the first person to be honoured by the Queen while orbiting Earth.

This message is firmly embraced by St Matthew’s, a school that celebrates inclusivity and prides itself on the happiness of its pupils and staff.

And the school has a big reason to smile after receiving a ‘Good’ Ofsted rating.

Ofsted said: “Pupils are proud to belong to this welcoming school community.

“They enjoy coming to school. They celebrate each other’s differences and learn the importance of treating everyone equally.”

Headteacher Simon Buxton-Moore said: “We are happy, our learners are happy, and it makes for a happy school.”

In 2022, Mr Buxton-Moore started a ‘Dine and Dream Big Club’ – a book club for children to research heroes who have overcome barriers and prejudices to make history, including country music icon Dolly Parton, heavyweight boxing champion Muhammad Ali and drag superstar RuPaul.

Key stage two children worked with the Little People Big Dreams books to learn about influential people and celebrate diversity.

“It’s a lunchtime inclusion club to celebrate those who have broken down barriers and are successful in their field,” said Mr Buxton-Moore.

Cllr Mohon Ali, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, visited the school to congratulate staff on the report and their excellent work in practice.

He praised: “This is great news. The Ofsted report is positive and shows how well the school works within the community.”

St Matthew’s also has designated ‘wellbeing champions’ who are dedicated to looking out for and supporting their peers who may be struggling.

Ofsted praised: “Older pupils are encouraged to be leaders and to support others through their actions. Those who are prefects and wellbeing champions value their responsibilities.

They enjoy being role models for their peers. Parents and carers are thrilled with the school. They value the care and support that their children receive. Pupils feel safe at school. They know that staff will take their worries seriously."