Chyngton School, located in Seaford, East Sussex, underwent an inspection on May 10 and 11, 2022, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has maintained this level of performance since its previous inspection in April 2019. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good, indicating a consistent standard of education and care for students.
Pupils at Chyngton School express happiness and pride in their school environment. They resonate with the school's values of kindness, safety, and readiness for learning, which are reflected in their daily experiences. The school fosters a culture of kindness and understanding, teaching students to appreciate diversity and the differences among individuals. This positive atmosphere is supported by staff who have high expectations for all children, particularly in the early years, where children are encouraged to engage and prepare for learning effectively.
Safety is a priority at Chyngton, with pupils demonstrating an understanding of online safety and feeling confident in using worry boxes to communicate any concerns. The school has established a supportive environment where pupils can seek help when needed. Behavior is generally good, with staff providing necessary support for those who require additional assistance in managing their behavior. Pupils are equipped with skills to resolve minor conflicts and report that instances of bullying are rare and addressed promptly.
The leadership team, including governors, is committed to ensuring the success of all pupils. They have implemented improvements in the curriculum and in addressing the emotional and social needs of students. The curriculum is designed with clear learning sequences and is ambitious for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Subject leaders are knowledgeable and provide training and support to staff, resulting in strong subject knowledge across the curriculum.
Reading is prioritized, with children learning phonics from the start of their education. Staff are well-trained in teaching phonics, and pupils who struggle are quickly identified and supported to catch up. The reading materials are appropriately matched to pupils' abilities, fostering a love for reading and building confidence. Mathematics is also a strong focus, with a well-structured curriculum that encourages pupils to enjoy and engage with mathematical challenges.
Pupils with special educational needs receive effective support, with their needs identified early and tailored actions implemented to facilitate their progress. The school promotes inclusivity, ensuring that these pupils are fully integrated into both the curriculum and the broader school community. Pupils are encouraged to take on responsibilities, such as serving as pupil governors, which fosters a sense of community and belonging.
The school emphasizes the importance of self-control and social-emotional skills, with staff addressing behavioral issues positively to minimize disruptions to learning. Governors play an active role in supporting and challenging school leaders, ensuring that staff feel supported and that their well-being is considered.
The safeguarding arrangements at Chyngton School are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks. Pupils are educated about safety, including online safety, and staff analyze records to identify any patterns that may require additional attention.
While the school demonstrates many strengths, there is a need to further develop systems for assessing pupil progress in some foundation subjects. This will provide leaders with a clearer overview of pupil progress across the curriculum. Overall, Chyngton School is a supportive and effective learning environment that prioritizes the well-being and success of its pupils.
