Christ Church CofE Primary School in Padgate, Warrington, was inspected on 20 and 21 September 2023, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has maintained a good standard of education, with notable strengths in personal development, which was rated as outstanding. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good. This inspection was the first routine evaluation since the school was last graded as outstanding twelve years ago, reflecting changes in the inspection framework and the school’s development over time.
Pupils at Christ Church CofE Primary School thrive in an environment that fosters high expectations for achievement. The staff are skilled and caring, providing support tailored to the individual needs of students. Children in the early years quickly adapt to established routines, learning the importance of cooperation and respect. The behavior of pupils is exemplary, and they demonstrate politeness and courtesy towards one another and adults. The school environment is safe, and pupils appreciate the support they receive from friends and staff in resolving minor conflicts.
The curriculum at the school is well-structured, allowing pupils to build their knowledge progressively from the nursery class onward. Teachers collaborate effectively to ensure that learning is coherent and that pupils are aware of what they have learned previously and what they need to know for future learning. Most teachers deliver the curriculum consistently well, although there are instances where some do not adequately check pupils' understanding of prior learning, which can lead to misconceptions.
Reading is a key focus, with staff employing effective strategies to engage children in the early years. By the end of key stage one, most pupils are fluent and accurate readers, thanks to the high-quality texts provided by the school. Additional support is available for older pupils who struggle with reading, helping them access the wider curriculum.
The school places a strong emphasis on personal development, integrating life skills and environmental education into the curriculum. Pupils engage in discussions about relationships and health, demonstrating maturity and understanding. Leadership at the school is characterized by teamwork, with staff and governors working collaboratively with pupils and parents. Leaders consider the views of all stakeholders when making decisions about educational quality.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some teachers occasionally fail to check that pupils have retained prior knowledge, which can hinder their learning. Additionally, there is inconsistency in how well staff implement strategies to promote concentration during lessons, leading to some pupils not fully engaging with their learning.
Overall, Christ Church CofE Primary School provides a supportive and effective educational environment where pupils are encouraged to excel academically and develop personally. The school is well-regarded by parents and the community, and it continues to strive for improvement in its educational practices. The commitment to safeguarding is evident, ensuring that pupils' welfare is prioritized. The school is well-positioned to build on its successes and address the areas identified for development, ensuring that all pupils receive the best possible education.
