Chase Side Primary School, located in Enfield, has recently undergone an inspection that highlighted its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on January 11 and 12, 2022, and marked a significant improvement from the previous inspection, which rated the school as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good.
Pupils at Chase Side Primary School are reported to be happy, engaged, and well-behaved, largely due to the high expectations set by the staff. The relationships between staff and pupils are characterized by warmth and respect, contributing to a safe and supportive environment. Incidents of bullying are rare, and pupils feel confident in reporting any concerns, knowing that staff will address them effectively. Parents and carers have expressed satisfaction with the school's management of behavior and bullying, reinforcing the positive atmosphere within the school.
The school offers a variety of lunchtime and after-school activities that cater to diverse interests, including sports, performing arts, gardening, and cookery. Pupils are encouraged to take on responsibilities and contribute to school life, exemplified by initiatives such as the school council's redesign of the school website and participation in community events. The curriculum is well-structured, enabling pupils to learn and retain knowledge effectively across various subjects, resulting in high-quality work.
Reading is a strong focus at Chase Side, with a systematic approach to phonics starting in the Nursery. Staff are well-trained to support pupils who struggle with reading, ensuring that they receive the necessary assistance to build confidence and improve their skills. The curriculum aligns with national standards, and leaders have clearly defined the knowledge and skills pupils are expected to acquire. Most subjects are sequenced effectively, allowing pupils to revisit and reinforce their learning over time.
In mathematics, for instance, early years pupils practice counting daily, which lays the foundation for understanding addition and subtraction. As they progress, older pupils apply this knowledge to more complex concepts, such as ordering fractions. Similarly, in art, pupils develop their understanding of printing techniques through hands-on activities that build on their prior knowledge.
However, the inspection identified areas for improvement, particularly in a few subjects where the essential knowledge and vocabulary for pupils to learn were not clearly defined. This lack of clarity can hinder pupils' ability to grasp more complex concepts later on. Leaders are encouraged to ensure that all subjects have a focused approach to the knowledge and vocabulary necessary for effective learning.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support to access the curriculum alongside their peers. Staff are trained to understand and cater to the needs of these pupils, fostering an inclusive environment that promotes confidence and success in learning.
Pupils demonstrate good behavior in lessons and during playtime, moving calmly around the school. Leaders have prioritized improving attendance and punctuality, working closely with families to ensure regular school attendance. The personal development of pupils is also a key focus, with discussions on topics such as online safety and healthy relationships integrated into the curriculum.
Leaders and governors have taken swift action to address previous weaknesses, prioritizing staff training and ensuring that teachers are well-equipped to deliver the curriculum effectively. Staff express pride in their work at Chase Side and appreciate the professional development opportunities provided by the leadership team.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with staff trained to report concerns and leaders seeking guidance from local authorities to support pupils and their families. The curriculum also educates pupils on safety issues, including the risks associated with gang affiliation and inappropriate language, empowering them to express discomfort when necessary. Overall, Chase Side Primary School is a supportive and effective learning environment that continues to strive for improvement.
