Holden Clough Primary Praised in Latest Ofsted Inspection
Our Trust is delighted to celebrate the positive outcome of the recent Ofsted inspection at Holden Clough Primary School. Following an inspection on 24 March and under Ofsted’s new and more demanding inspection framework introduced in November 2025, Holden Clough achieved a “strong” judgement for achievement, alongside expected standards across all other inspection areas.
Notably, Holden Clough is currently the only primary school in Tameside to receive a “strong” judgement in any inspection area under the new framework.
The report highlights pupils’ academic progress, particularly by the end of Key Stage 2, where attainment is above national averages in reading, writing and mathematics. Inspectors also praised pupils’ positive attitudes to learning, high levels of engagement, and the warm, trusting relationships between staff and pupils. The section “What it is like to be a pupil at this school” reflects a thriving school community where pupils feel safe, valued and supported, and where “a love of learning permeates the school.”
Headteacher Adam Porter said:
We are incredibly proud of this report and of what it says about our pupils, staff and whole school community. The new Ofsted framework has raised expectations significantly, so achieving a strong judgement for achievement is a real testament to the hard work and care shown every day by both staff and pupils. This report truly belongs to them.
Inspectors also recognised the school’s robust safeguarding culture, inclusive approach, and effective support for pupils with additional needs. Parents’ views were highly positive, with Ofsted acknowledging the strength of parental support for the school.
Holden Clough Primary School is a valued member of our Trust, where schools work in partnership to share expertise, support continuous improvement and ensure the best possible outcomes for our pupils.
Our CEO Karen Burns said:
This is an excellent and well deserved outcome for Holden Clough. Achieving this under the new inspection framework reflects the commitment of the staff and leadership team and the impact of effective collaboration across the Trust. Most importantly, it shows that pupils are thriving academically, socially and emotionally. We are proud to support Holden Clough as it continues to build on its success.
The report also recognises the school’s ambition to continue improving, particularly in further developing writing opportunities and building pupils’ resilience. The inspection confirms Holden Clough Primary School as a place where high expectations, strong relationships and a shared commitment to excellence enable pupils to thrive. To read the full Ofsted report, visit www.holdencloughprimary.org.uk.