Chaddleworth St Andrew's Church of England Primary School is recognized as a good school, providing a nurturing and safe environment where pupils thrive. The school is deeply integrated into the community, fostering a sense of pride among parents, carers, and students. The atmosphere is characterized by kindness and friendliness, as noted by students who appreciate the supportive environment. School leaders maintain high expectations for all pupils, encouraging them to embody the school's values, which contributes to their personal development and academic success. Opportunities for leadership, such as becoming a school councillor, allow pupils to develop essential skills and support their peers, particularly those in distress.
Pupils demonstrate maturity in their behavior, holding each other accountable and contributing to a positive school culture with minimal instances of poor behavior or bullying. The school’s effective management of any issues that arise ensures a focused learning environment where lessons proceed smoothly. Strong relationships between staff and pupils enhance feelings of safety and well-being within the school.
The curriculum at Chaddleworth St Andrew's is ambitious and well-structured, designed to meet the needs and interests of all pupils. Leaders have carefully selected and adapted resources to ensure that the curriculum is relevant and engaging. In certain subjects, the curriculum has been developed in-house, leveraging the expertise of the staff. The logical sequencing of the curriculum helps pupils grasp the knowledge they are expected to learn.
Staff are well-equipped to deliver the curriculum effectively, understanding the prior knowledge of pupils and how to build on it. This approach allows for a gradual development of understanding. In most subjects, teachers receive clear guidance on instructional methods, which enhances the learning experience. However, in a few subjects, the lack of specific teaching strategies can lead to inconsistencies in how concepts are taught, making it more challenging for pupils to learn and retain critical information.
Reading is a significant focus at the school, with efforts made to instill a love for reading among pupils and their families. Parents are actively engaged in supporting their children's reading at home, and staff are trained in phonics instruction, enabling pupils to decode unfamiliar words effectively. The school provides a diverse range of reading materials, ensuring that all pupils have access to high-quality texts that promote fluency and confidence in reading.
Leaders are adept at identifying the needs of pupils, particularly those requiring additional support. Tailored interventions are planned and monitored to ensure that all pupils, including those with special educational needs, can succeed across the curriculum. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, allowing pupils to explore new interests and develop skills outside the classroom. Trips and experiences further enrich the curriculum, reinforcing the knowledge gained in lessons.
Governance at the school is strong, with governors actively monitoring the quality of education and supporting staff in managing their workloads. The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks. Pupils are educated on managing risks, including online safety, ensuring they are well-prepared to navigate various situations.
While the school excels in many areas, there is a need for improvement in a small number of subjects where teaching methods are not clearly defined. Leaders should ensure that all staff understand the pedagogical approaches intended for use, enhancing the overall quality of education provided. This inspection marks the first routine evaluation since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the school continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing a high-quality education for all its pupils.
