Ellingham Primary School, located in Chessington, Surrey, underwent an inspection on October 12 and 13, 2021, 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, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good.
Pupils at Ellingham Primary School exhibit good behavior both in lessons and around the school. Staff maintain high expectations, and pupils respond positively, contributing to a friendly and purposeful atmosphere that enhances learning. The school promotes safety, and pupils feel secure, demonstrating an understanding of the importance of inclusion and diversity. They articulate the significance of respecting differences and report minimal bullying, with confidence in the staff's ability to address any issues.
During the national lockdowns, pupils had a positive experience with remote education, particularly appreciating the online well-being room that facilitated communication and activities. Older pupils take on responsibilities and serve as role models for younger students, feeling well-prepared for the transition to secondary school. Leaders organize various activities, including science projects with secondary school pupils, to support this transition.
The headteacher and senior leaders have effectively fostered a good school environment, with positive feedback from parents regarding the impact of changes on their children. The school collaborates with community groups, sharing best practices with other institutions. The curriculum is well-planned and sequenced, building on prior learning. For instance, Year 4 pupils connect their previous studies on deforestation to current lessons on climate change.
High-quality phonics instruction begins in the early years, with staff ensuring that pupils grasp foundational skills before progressing. Support for weaker readers continues throughout their time at the school, and daily storytime sessions captivate pupils' imaginations. The science curriculum has improved significantly since the last inspection, with pupils demonstrating a solid understanding of scientific concepts.
While the curriculum provides a rich array of experiences, some pupils occasionally struggle with vocabulary, leading to misunderstandings. This inconsistency in vocabulary instruction needs addressing. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive strong support, with well-trained staff and effective communication with parents.
Pupils generally behave well, with established procedures for managing behavior when necessary. Leaders regularly review the behavior policy and are working to enhance positive behavior rewards. Personal development is a notable strength, with Year 6 pupils taking on leadership roles and engaging in initiatives that promote kindness and community involvement.
Despite the school's strengths, there are areas for improvement. Communication regarding the school's vision and the rationale behind changes needs to be clearer to ensure all stakeholders understand the direction of the school. Additionally, some subject leaders require further development to fully embrace their roles and responsibilities. The teaching of vocabulary should be more focused and consistent across subjects to prevent misunderstandings.
The safeguarding arrangements at Ellingham Primary School are effective, with pupils aware of the measures in place to keep them safe. The safeguarding team is well-trained, and staff respond promptly to concerns, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, the school demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement and the well-being of its pupils, fostering an environment conducive to learning and personal growth.