Business Details
Your Trusted Primary School in Whitefield, Manchester
Higher Lane Primary School is a two-form entry primary school located in Whitefield, Manchester, serving 465 pupils. Established as a National Support School, we provide a structured environment that fosters positive attitudes toward learning and excellence. Our curriculum adopts a thematic approach, ensuring engaging and high-quality education across key subjects. With a dedicated team of staff, including two Reception classes supported by five full-time educators, we prioritise both academic achievement and personal development. The school maintains strong Ofsted recognition, rated as 'good' with 'outstanding behaviour' in its 2014 inspection.We operate an open-door policy, encouraging parental collaboration to support pupil potential. Our facilities include a dedicated Out of School Club, Forest School provision, and specialist areas for mathematics, reading, and computing. The school actively involves children in leadership roles through the School Council and Head Boy/Girl positions. As part of Vision Multi Academy Trust, we benefit from leadership expertise, including our CEO Carol McLachlan, a National Leader of Education. We remain committed to safeguarding, inclusivity, and adapting to challenges such as remote learning during the pandemic.
Services
Nursery Education
Reception Classes
Out of School Club
Special Educational Needs Provision
Forest School Activities
Remote Learning Support
Parental Workshops
Curriculum Enrichment
Safeguarding Services
School Council Leadership
Highlights and features
- We have a proven track record of 'good' Ofsted inspections since 2014.
- Our curriculum combines academic excellence with creative, thematic learning approaches.
- We offer specialist educational support through our Resourced Provision for SEN pupils.
- Our Out of School Club provides flexible childcare from 7:45am to 6:00pm.
- We maintain strong parental engagement through regular communication and workshops.
What people say
Outstanding behaviour
Dedicated staff
Engaging curriculum
Strong parental support
Effective leadership
Services
Nursery Education
Our EYFS Unit provides a fun, structured environment for children transitioning from nursery to school. With familiar areas like Construction and Sand Zones, learning combines child-initiated play and teacher-led sessions in maths, phonics, and reading. The spacious classroom, conservatory for messy play, and dedicated outdoor area support holistic early development.
Out of School Club
Operating from 7:45am to 6:00pm, our OOSC offers a safe, supervised environment for pupils before and after school hours. The club provides structured activities and dedicated space for Reception children, supporting working families while maintaining educational continuity through play-based learning opportunities.
Special Educational Needs Provision
Our Resourced Provision delivers tailored support for pupils with special educational needs. The service includes individualised learning plans, specialist staff, and inclusive classroom strategies to ensure all children achieve their potential while integrating fully with mainstream school activities.
Forest School Activities
Forest School provision offers regular outdoor learning experiences that develop confidence, independence, and environmental awareness. Through hands-on activities in natural settings, children enhance problem-solving skills, teamwork, and practical knowledge aligned with curriculum objectives.
Curriculum Enrichment
Our high-quality curriculum uses thematic approaches to create engaging, interdisciplinary learning experiences. Subjects like mathematics, computing, and religious education are taught through connected topics, fostering deeper understanding while maintaining rigorous academic standards across all key stages.
People
Mr I Tetlow
Headteacher
Mr Tetlow is the Headteacher and National Leader of Education at Higher Lane Primary School. With extensive leadership experience, he oversees school operations, staff development, and strategic improvements while maintaining close engagement with pupils and parents.
Carol McLachlan
CEO
As CEO of Vision Multi Academy Trust and a National Leader of Education, Carol McLachlan provides strategic leadership across the trust. She supports school improvement initiatives and collaborates with educational professionals to enhance teaching standards and pupil attainment.
Mrs McCoy
School Office
Mrs McCoy works in the school office, managing administrative tasks, parent communications, and information requests. She ensures smooth operational support alongside colleagues Mrs Blair and Mrs Styles.
Mrs Blair
School Office
Mrs Blair assists in the school office, handling daily administrative duties, visitor management, and coordinating communication between staff, parents, and external partners.
Mrs Styles
School Office
Mrs Styles contributes to office operations, supporting school administration, parent inquiries, and organisational tasks that maintain efficient school functioning.
Questions
What age groups does Higher Lane Primary School cater for?
We educate children aged 4-11, covering Nursery, Reception, and Key Stages 1 and 2.
How does the school support children with special educational needs?
Our Resourced Provision offers tailored support, including individualised learning plans and specialist staff for SEN pupils.
Are after-school care options available?
Yes, our Out of School Club operates from 7:45am to 6:00pm daily for working families.
How can parents get involved in school activities?
Parents participate through regular workshops, questionnaires, Ofsted Parent View, and collaborative decision-making opportunities.
What outdoor learning opportunities exist?
Forest School activities and dedicated outdoor areas support practical, nature-based learning experiences.
How does the school communicate important updates?
We use weekly newsletters, website announcements, Twitter updates, and direct parent communications.
