St Francis Church of England Primary School, located in Chandler’s Ford, Hampshire, has recently undergone an inspection on 23 and 24 April 2024. The overall effectiveness of the school has been rated as good, with specific areas such as behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and early years provision receiving outstanding ratings. The quality of education and leadership and management were rated as good. The school had previously been rated outstanding in its last inspection in December 2019 and had been exempt from routine inspections until November 2020 due to its high standards.
The school is characterized by a nurturing environment where pupils embody the school’s values. They demonstrate exceptional behaviour both in lessons and throughout the school. Staff ensure that all pupils, including those in the Reception Year, receive a warm welcome each day. The school actively seeks pupils' views and addresses any concerns promptly, fostering a sense of happiness and safety among students. The commitment to empowering all pupils, particularly those who are disadvantaged, is evident in the school’s approach to preparing them for the next stages of their education. The values of care, trust, and respect are integral to promoting positive attitudes towards learning, and pupils respond enthusiastically to the school’s high expectations.
The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, with a clear sequence of content identified for pupils from early years onwards. Staff are responsive to the needs of pupils and make necessary adjustments to the curriculum. Strong support is provided for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that their individual needs are met effectively. Staff benefit from high-quality training, which enhances their subject knowledge and teaching practices. The focus on developing pupils' communication and language skills begins in Reception, where children receive an exceptional start to their education.
Pupils engage in thoughtfully designed activities that allow them to practice and develop their skills. Teachers frequently recap important content, aiding pupils in connecting and building their learning over time. However, in a few subjects, there is a need for more systematic checking of pupils’ understanding of previously taught knowledge, which can lead to some misconceptions not being addressed promptly. This has resulted in varied achievement levels across different subjects.
Reading is prioritized, starting in Reception, where children receive expert support to enhance their language skills. The school follows a structured phonics scheme and provides additional support for pupils who require it. Pupils are encouraged to read books that align with the sounds they have learned, fostering fluency and a love for reading. The school also engages parents and carers by providing guidance on supporting their children’s reading at home.
Pupils exhibit exceptional behaviour and maintain positive attitudes towards learning. A consistent approach to promoting positive behaviour creates a conducive learning environment. Attendance is high, as leaders work closely with families to emphasize its importance. The personal development of pupils is remarkable, with a curriculum designed to cultivate character and an appreciation for diversity. Opportunities for charitable engagement further enhance this aspect of their development.
Leadership at all levels is aspirational for pupils, with a shared inclusive vision that places pupils at the heart of decision-making. Staff express satisfaction with the support they receive, which helps them refine their teaching practices. The governing body plays a crucial role in supporting and challenging the school to ensure continuous improvement. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, St Francis Church of England Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering the personal development of its pupils.
