Thomas Fairchild Community School, located in Hoxton, London, underwent an inspection on September 26 and 27, 2023, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has made significant improvements since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management were all rated as good, while early years provision was rated as outstanding.
Pupils at Thomas Fairchild Community School take pride in their school and enjoy their learning experiences. The leadership has fostered a safe and supportive environment that encourages pupils to achieve their best. Children in the early years have quickly adapted and are eager to learn. The school emphasizes responsibility as a core value, with pupils actively participating in initiatives such as the pupil council, which collaborates with leaders to enhance the school lunch menu.
The commitment of leaders and staff to providing a high-quality education is evident. They have established a stimulating learning environment in early years, allowing children to thrive both academically and socially. The curriculum is broad, and leaders have carefully considered the essential knowledge and skills that pupils should acquire. Pupils express enthusiasm for becoming reading ambassadors, participating in selecting books for the school and recommending their favorites to peers.
The classroom environment is calm and focused, with pupils motivated to learn. Staff utilize a token system linked to school values to reward positive behavior, fostering a sense of community and encouraging pupils to support one another. Older pupils take on roles as playground friends, helping younger students engage in various activities.
The school has implemented an ambitious curriculum that identifies key subject knowledge and skills across all areas. Subjects are planned logically, allowing pupils to build on their prior knowledge. In early years, the curriculum lays a strong foundation in all seven areas of learning and development, preparing children for future learning. Staff engage with children to enhance their language skills, ensuring they are well-equipped for the next stages of their education.
Teachers regularly assess pupils' retention of key knowledge, particularly in subjects like physical education. However, there are instances where checks on learning are not consistent across all subjects, which may lead to gaps in knowledge. Leaders are proactive in identifying pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, making necessary adjustments to ensure all pupils can access the curriculum effectively.
Reading is prioritized throughout the school, with children learning phonics from the start of Reception Year. Staff read to pupils daily, fostering a love for reading. The school encourages parental involvement in supporting their children's reading at home. If pupils struggle with phonics, staff quickly provide support to keep them on track.
The school maintains a calm learning environment with high expectations for behavior. Staff consistently apply the behavior policy and use positive reinforcement to motivate pupils. Attendance is improving, with strategies in place to support those with persistent absence.
Thomas Fairchild Community School offers a variety of after-school clubs and activities at no cost, including sports, art, and drama. Educational outings are integrated into the curriculum, enriching pupils' learning experiences. Leaders have acted swiftly to implement improvements, focusing on areas that will have the most significant impact. The governing body is knowledgeable about the school and effectively holds leaders accountable.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school is committed to continuous improvement, with a focus on ensuring that all pupils securely learn the knowledge and skills they need to progress in their education.
