Trinity Church of England School in Lewisham has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 19 and 20 October 2021. The school fosters a strong sense of community among its pupils, who feel safe and enjoy their learning environment. The behavior of the students is commendable, as they understand the expectations set for them and value their education. The staff maintain high expectations for all children, and the school effectively addresses any instances of bullying, ensuring that pupils are educated about healthy relationships and the differences between various types of behavior.
The school promotes its principles of learning, loving, and living, which resonate with the students. They appreciate the positive relationships they have with their teachers and the family group learning approach that contributes to the school's ethos. Independence is a key focus, especially in the early years, where routines are established to build confidence. The Trinity Charter, which includes a variety of activities such as attending clubs and writing reviews, enriches the curriculum and is adapted for different age groups. Older students are encouraged to engage with larger projects, such as climate change, which they find rewarding.
The curriculum at Trinity is ambitious and well-planned, spanning from early years to Year 11. In subjects like history, students build on their prior knowledge effectively, while in music, they demonstrate a good understanding of previously learned concepts. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in art, where some students struggle with previously learned techniques due to disruptions during remote learning. The school is actively working to close these gaps through subject-specific assessments.
Reading is a significant strength of the school, with staff dedicated to fostering a love of reading and effectively teaching phonics. The school has implemented catch-up programs for students who need additional support, ensuring that they reach their expected reading age. The family atmosphere is valued by both pupils and parents, and the school's approach to behavior is described as caring and robust. Clear expectations and well-established routines contribute to a positive learning environment.
The broader curriculum is also well-received, with programs designed to support personal development and respond to current events. The Trinity Futures program prepares students for life after school, with guest speakers sharing their experiences in various careers. Staff members take pride in their work and appreciate the consideration given to their workload and well-being. Governors are well-informed about the school's priorities and vision.
Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with teachers knowledgeable about the needs of their pupils and the community context. The well-being curriculum addresses important themes, and staff receive training on safeguarding issues. Mental health is prioritized, with designated leads in place to support students.
While the curriculum is well-planned, the school recognizes the need for improvement in ensuring that pupils consistently demonstrate fluency and recall of knowledge across all subjects. Achieving this consistency is identified as a crucial next step for the school. Overall, Trinity Church of England School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its students.
