Charles Kingsley’s Church of England Primary School in Eversley, Hampshire, has recently undergone an inspection, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection took place on the 1st and 2nd of November 2023, marking the first routine inspection since the COVID-19 pandemic. The school has a strong reputation for fostering a warm and inclusive environment where pupils feel valued and respected. High expectations are evident throughout the school, contributing to a culture where students develop a love for learning and achieve commendable results across the curriculum.
Pupils at the school embody the values of respect, which are integral to the school’s ethos. They demonstrate politeness and consideration towards one another, with instances of unkindness being rare. The school promotes positive behavior through various initiatives, including the awarding of ‘STEP’ badges for good manners. Students also engage in a variety of extracurricular activities, such as drama and magic clubs, which enhance their school experience and provide opportunities for personal responsibility, particularly through roles like house captain and buddy systems for younger students.
Parental feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing appreciation for the school’s commitment to high-quality education and personal development. Parents feel that the staff genuinely care for the children and understand their individual needs. The school’s leadership is focused on developing pupils’ character, with personal development being a central aspect of the curriculum. The pastoral support provided, including forest school activities, is commendable and ensures that every child receives the guidance they need.
The school’s curriculum is ambitious, particularly in core subjects like English and mathematics, where leaders have carefully planned the knowledge that pupils are expected to learn. Assessment practices in these areas are effective, allowing for the identification of pupils with additional needs and ensuring they receive appropriate support. However, there are some subjects where the curriculum is still being refined, and the sequencing of essential learning needs to be clearer to enhance long-term retention of knowledge.
In the early years, the school excels in providing a strong foundation for children’s education. The curriculum is tailored to children’s interests, and high-quality interactions foster curiosity and engagement. The phonics program is particularly effective, enabling children to access a wide range of literature and develop a love for reading. The school library offers diverse literature, and regular author visits further enrich the reading experience for pupils.
While the overall behavior of pupils is commendable, with established routines and clear expectations, there are areas identified for improvement. The school needs to ensure that the curriculum content is sequenced appropriately across all subjects to enhance pupils’ ability to recall and apply their learning over time. Additionally, assessment practices in foundation subjects require consistency to effectively address gaps in understanding.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The leadership team, including the newly appointed headteacher, is committed to ongoing development and has implemented a plan to address current priorities. Staff morale is high, with teachers feeling supported and motivated in their roles. Overall, Charles Kingsley’s Church of England Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering the personal development of its pupils.
