Churchgate Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School in Harlow has received a positive inspection report, indicating that the overall effectiveness of the school is good. The inspection took place on May 22 and 23, 2024, and the findings reflect the school’s commitment to providing a safe and enjoyable learning environment for its pupils. The school fosters a culture where all students feel welcomed, respected, and valued. Pupils express confidence in the adults at the school, believing that their concerns will be addressed appropriately.
The school maintains high expectations for both learning and behavior, which pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, strive to meet. The school’s rules emphasize respect, readiness, and safety, and pupils demonstrate a strong understanding of bullying, asserting that it is not an issue at Churchgate. They are taught to treat others as they wish to be treated, promoting a positive atmosphere.
Pupils appreciate the responsibilities they hold, such as being part of the school council or worship team, which helps them understand democratic principles and develop leadership skills. They also enjoy participating in various extracurricular activities, although they expressed a desire for more opportunities to explore their interests.
The curriculum at Churchgate is ambitious and clearly outlines the learning objectives for each subject. In response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the school has implemented a new curriculum designed to address learning gaps, particularly in reading and mathematics. While this has led to improvements in pupil achievement, there is a noted need for more high-quality writing opportunities across the curriculum. Some pupils' writing lacks the depth and quality necessary to demonstrate their understanding fully.
Teachers at the school possess a strong knowledge of their subjects and select activities that facilitate effective learning. They revisit prior learning regularly to help pupils retain information, although the assessment systems in place are still being refined. As a result, there are instances where teachers may not fully understand what knowledge pupils have retained, leading to gaps in understanding.
Reading is a top priority at Churchgate, with leaders carefully selecting books and stories for pupils to engage with from an early age. Staff are well-trained in early reading strategies, ensuring that pupils receive prompt feedback on their reading errors. The school community values the importance of good behavior, and pupils are taught to follow routines and develop independence from their first year.
Despite the positive aspects, the school faces challenges with attendance, as some pupils have high levels of absence, which affects their learning and personal development opportunities. The school is actively working to improve attendance rates through collaboration with families and external agencies.
The school promotes safety and respect for diversity through its wider curriculum, teaching pupils about online safety and the importance of valuing different beliefs. Staff members are dedicated and work collaboratively, supported by the local authority, which has contributed to the school’s improvements. The governing body is engaged and provides appropriate support and challenge to the leadership team.
Overall, Churchgate Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a quality education, fostering a supportive environment, and addressing areas for improvement, particularly in writing and attendance. The school’s efforts to enhance its curriculum and support for all pupils are commendable, and the positive feedback from the inspection reflects its ongoing dedication to excellence in education.
