Highbridge’s Churchfield Primary School has been given a glowing new report by Ofsted inspectors.
The Ofsted inspection team has praised all aspects of Churchfield Church School – from learning and behaviour to personal development, leadership and early years education.
Ofsted said all pupils reported how happy they were in school, with this positive attitude evident in the youngest children while others said staff were always friendly and supportive, and quick to resolve problems if they occurred.
In delivering a judgement of ‘Good’ in all aspects of school life, the inspectors noted a multitude of areas in which staff, led by headteacher Ross Minton, pictured, had developed a curriculum for all children which produced a high level of enthusiasm about learning.
Ofsted’s new report on Churchfield School highlights:
- Impressive use of vocabulary in Reception and Nursery children
- The development of language continuing in Key Stage 2 which helps pupils become more successful learners.
- Exciting trips which helped pupils enhance their understanding of curriculum topics
- Effective systems which help pupils move effectively through the curriculum
- A well-adapted curriculum for pupils with complex needs which means they ‘flourish’ in the school
- A governing body which constantly challenges staff to ensure children receive a good education
The inspectors have also noted how well the school prepares children for life in modern Britain by learning about democracy in the curriculum as well as having an effective school council.
There was also praise for the non-curriculum aspects of the school and Churchfield has worked well with families to emphasise the need for good attendance at school as a vital aspect of learning.
The inspectors added that ‘exciting’ trips helped them learn about the subjects they were studying, including a visit to the town’s statue of local wartime hero Frank Foley.
And in noting the school’s effective safeguarding procedures, the inspectors say pupils feel safe at Churchfield.
Lead inspector Susan Aykin adds: “Pupils enjoy coming to school because they like learning and being with their friends. They say that it is a friendly school, and that staff are friendly and supportive.”
“All pupils, including pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), are fully included in school life.”
“ Staff share leaders’ ambitions for pupils to succeed in their learning and to thrive socially and emotionally.”
“Leaders have put in place effective systems to ensure that pupils keep up with the curriculum. Staff use information about pupils well to inform the planning of their lessons. They revisit learning to ensure that pupils have a secure understanding before moving on to new topics.”
“Pupils with SEND receive highly effective support. Some pupils with complex needs study the curriculum with suitable adaptations. Consequently, pupils with SEND flourish in the school.”
“Leaders have also ensured that pupils attend school regularly. They have developed strong relationships with parents and carers. Leaders have communicated the message well that if pupils are not in school, they are not learning.”
Mr Minton says: “We are thrilled by this inspection report which is a testament to the hard work of staff and the support of our wonderful families and pupils.”
“This is a school on a journey, and we are ambitious for every child, so all our staff are hugely motivated to keep building on the work already done.”
“We pride ourselves on ensuring the right curriculum and extra-curricular activities are tailored for every child and their particular needs.”
“It was especially gratifying to hear the inspectors note how happy pupils are at Churchfield and this is such a key feature of our school, and one on which we pride ourselves.”
