St Michael’s Church of England Voluntary Aided Junior School in Chelmsford, Essex, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 2 and 3, 2022. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils feel proud to attend and enjoy their time at school. The atmosphere is calm and welcoming, with pupils demonstrating kindness, care, and friendliness towards one another. They express a strong sense of safety and know whom to approach for help when needed.
The staff at St Michael’s maintain high expectations for their pupils, which is evident in the quality of work and behavior displayed. Pupils are motivated to perform their best and take pride in sharing their achievements, particularly during celebration assemblies. The behavior of pupils is commendable both in lessons and throughout the school, with many stating that staff are firm yet fair. The school takes bullying seriously, addressing any incidents effectively, and pupils report that bullying is not a prevalent issue.
The school offers a variety of extra-curricular clubs that take place during lunchtime and after school, such as choir, chess, and community club, allowing pupils to explore their interests and develop new skills. Participation in community events, including intergenerational activities, is encouraged, and pupils enjoy various responsibilities, including roles as worship leaders, school councillors, and house captains.
Leaders at St Michael’s have established a well-designed curriculum that ensures pupils acquire essential knowledge and skills over time. Assessment practices are in place to identify and address gaps in learning, providing support for those who find learning challenging. As a result, pupils are well-prepared for their transition to secondary school and develop into confident learners.
The school promotes a culture of reading, encouraging pupils to read widely and providing support for those developing their reading skills. However, some pupils struggle with decoding texts, which can hinder their access to the full curriculum. Leaders are tasked with ensuring that reading materials are appropriately matched to pupils' reading stages to enhance fluency and confidence.
Disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs and disabilities receive adequate support, allowing them to access the same curriculum as their peers. The school adapts the curriculum to ensure these pupils can engage fully in school life and achieve well.
Pupils exhibit high expectations for their behavior and are focused during lessons. They move sensibly around the school and enjoy structured routines during break and lunchtime. Leaders prioritize staff well-being and workload, resulting in a supportive environment for both staff and pupils.
The safeguarding arrangements at St Michael’s are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance. Staff are trained to identify concerns promptly, and leaders maintain robust systems for tracking and addressing issues. The school fosters strong relationships with parents and collaborates with external agencies to support pupils and their families.
To improve, the school must focus on supporting a small group of pupils who struggle with decoding, ensuring they can access the curriculum effectively. By providing appropriate reading materials and targeted support, these pupils can catch up with their peers and benefit from the school's ambitious curriculum. Overall, St Michael’s Church of England Voluntary Aided Junior School continues to provide a nurturing and effective educational environment for its pupils.
