Christ Church Primary School in Hampstead has received an outstanding rating in its recent inspection, reflecting its exceptional educational standards and overall effectiveness. The school has maintained this high level of performance since its last inspection in May 2009, when it was also rated outstanding. The inspection, conducted on November 1 and 2, 2023, highlighted the school's commitment to providing a safe and nurturing environment for its pupils. Students expressed a strong sense of safety, attributing this to the presence of supportive adults throughout the school.
The school’s curriculum is a significant strength, designed to interweave academic subjects with extracurricular activities, ensuring that every experience has educational value. This thoughtful integration enhances pupils' learning while making it enjoyable. The behavior of pupils is exemplary, characterized by respect for others and attentiveness in class. They are encouraged to be independent thinkers, contributing creatively to their learning.
The curriculum is meticulously crafted to ensure that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, receive the highest quality education. Staff members are well-trained and knowledgeable about their subjects, which allows them to deliver lessons that build on prior knowledge and skills. This approach is evident across various subjects, including art, history, music, and physical education, where pupils are taught foundational techniques before progressing to more complex tasks.
The school places a strong emphasis on early reading and the enjoyment of literature. A consistent phonics program is implemented from the start of Reception, enabling pupils to read with increasing fluency by the end of Year 1. The school also promotes a culture of reading for pleasure, with initiatives such as visits to local bookstores to ensure all pupils have access to high-quality reading materials.
In the early years, the curriculum is closely aligned with the rest of the school, providing a solid foundation for children as they transition into Year 1. Staff rigorously track children's progress, ensuring that any additional support needed is promptly provided. This attention to detail contributes to the high achievement levels of all children.
Personal development is prioritized alongside academic learning, with a comprehensive program in place that covers essential topics such as democracy, ethics, and health. The wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports and educational trips, significantly enriches pupils' spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development.
Leadership at the school is characterized by a methodical and reflective approach, involving all stakeholders in the continuous improvement of the school. The well-being of teachers is a priority, with innovative strategies in place to manage workloads effectively. This focus on staff well-being, combined with a relentless commitment to refining the curriculum, has resulted in strong pupil attendance and high academic outcomes.
The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring that pupils' safety and well-being are paramount. Overall, Christ Church Primary School exemplifies excellence in education, preparing its pupils for life in modern Britain while fostering a love for learning and personal growth.
