Christ Church C of E Primary School in Surbiton, Surrey, has been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on April 23 and 24, 2024. The school fosters a happy and supportive environment where pupils thrive and take pride in being part of the Christ Church family. The inclusive ethos is evident, with strong partnerships between staff, parents, and the community, contributing to a positive experience for all students. The school's mission statement emphasizes faith, responsibility, respect, and achievement, which is reflected in the daily actions of both pupils and staff.
The curriculum at Christ Church is broad and ambitious, designed to develop pupils' knowledge and confidence. High expectations are set for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. This commitment to inclusivity ensures that all pupils are well-prepared for the next stages of their education. The school has a strong track record of academic achievement, as evidenced by published outcomes.
Pupil behavior is commendable, with students demonstrating respect and kindness towards one another and adults. Instances of bullying are reported to be rare, and when they do occur, they are addressed swiftly. The school promotes independence and character development, encouraging pupils to take on leadership roles such as house captains and reading mentors for younger students. A variety of extracurricular clubs, including chess, choir, and sports, enrich the pupils' school experience.
The leadership team has crafted an ambitious curriculum that is carefully sequenced to build knowledge progressively. For instance, in geography, the theme of sustainability is integrated across year groups, allowing pupils to explore topics from natural habitats in Year 1 to the water cycle in older years. Teachers exhibit enthusiasm and possess strong subject knowledge, employing effective strategies that help most pupils retain and apply what they have learned.
While the school generally excels in teaching practices, there are occasional inconsistencies in the implementation of the curriculum. Some teachers may not fully check pupils' understanding, which can hinder deeper learning connections. The school recognizes the need for all staff to develop expertise in assessing learning and adapting teaching methods accordingly.
Christ Church prioritizes reading, starting from Reception, where phonics is emphasized. Pupils are matched with books that align with their phonics knowledge, fostering confidence and enthusiasm for reading. The school has established a well-structured well-being curriculum that aligns with its Christian values, addressing sensitive topics with care and promoting respect for diverse faiths and cultures.
Attendance is closely monitored, with robust systems in place to ensure pupils attend regularly and on time. Staff express high levels of job satisfaction, appreciating the leadership's responsiveness to their feedback. Governors are actively involved in the school community, holding leaders accountable for educational quality while considering staff welfare.
The safeguarding arrangements at Christ Church are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The inspection concluded that while the school is performing well, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring consistent implementation of the curriculum and checking pupils' understanding. Overall, Christ Church C of E Primary School continues to provide a good education, fostering a nurturing and inclusive atmosphere for its pupils.
