Terling Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School, located in Chelmsford, Essex, has recently undergone an inspection on January 11 and 12, 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school has been rated as good, reflecting significant improvements since the previous inspection, which had rated it as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision have all been rated as good.
The school is characterized by a strong sense of community, where pupils demonstrate enthusiasm for learning and a positive attitude towards their education. Attendance figures are high, indicating that students enjoy coming to school. Pupils exhibit independence and confidence, often expressing their views on fairness and justice. For example, older students have initiated a club to help younger pupils understand concepts of fairness, showcasing their leadership and commitment to their peers. The school’s values of respect, trust, courage, and truthfulness are well understood by the pupils, who are rewarded for embodying these principles. Instances of bullying are rare, and the school environment is calm and conducive to learning.
The curriculum is designed to help pupils achieve specific milestones over a two-year cycle. Leaders have effectively planned the necessary knowledge steps for most subjects, allowing teachers to tailor lessons to meet the diverse needs of pupils. However, there are a few subjects where new middle leaders have not yet fully mapped out these steps, leading to some overlap in learning among different age groups within the same class. Despite this, the teaching generally aligns well with pupils' learning needs, particularly in subjects like science.
Reading is prioritized across the school, with a phonics program introduced in Reception. Teachers are well-trained and provide ongoing support to ensure pupils progress in their reading skills. The school fosters a love for reading, with pupils actively discussing their favorite books and the enjoyment they derive from them. Regular assessments, such as weekly quizzes, help teachers gauge pupils' understanding and identify areas needing reinforcement.
The school is committed to inclusivity, ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive the support they need to thrive alongside their peers. The special educational needs coordinator plays a crucial role in monitoring and addressing these needs effectively.
In the early years, the curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, preparing children for their transition to Year 1. The learning environment is engaging, and activities are designed to meet the developmental needs of the children, making learning enjoyable.
Pupils are also encouraged to develop their understanding of different cultures and beliefs, promoting tolerance and respect. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, ensuring that all pupils, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds, have equal access to these opportunities.
Leaders and governors maintain strong engagement with the school community, enhancing learning opportunities for both pupils and staff. Regular visits and discussions with staff and pupils help governors monitor the effectiveness of leadership.
The safeguarding arrangements in place are effective, with all staff trained in the school's safeguarding policies. Pupils are educated on safety, including online safety and emergency procedures.
To further improve, the school needs to ensure that the key knowledge steps required for all subjects are clearly identified, allowing all pupils to achieve their learning milestones effectively. Overall, Terling Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive learning environment for all its pupils.
