Chislet Church of England Primary School, located in Canterbury, Kent, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on November 23 and 24, 2022. The school provides a friendly and welcoming environment where pupils feel cared for and are encouraged to care for one another. The atmosphere is supportive, with rare instances of bullying, as staff are quick to address any unkind behavior. Pupils express pride in their school and actively participate in various roles, such as class prefects and librarians, demonstrating responsibility and diligence in their duties. Older students serve as positive role models for younger peers, fostering a sense of community.
The school has high expectations for both work and behavior, which pupils strive to meet. They take delight in receiving recognition for their efforts, such as earning a handwriting pen. The enthusiasm for learning is evident as pupils engage in discussions about their favorite authors and subjects, and they enjoy collaborative work with their classmates. Parents appreciate the high levels of care and kindness their children receive, feeling confident in their safety at school.
Leaders at Chislet Church of England Primary School have shown determination in enhancing the school curriculum, establishing effective links across the federation to share expertise. This collaboration has positively impacted the quality of the curriculum while also reducing staff workload, contributing to high morale among teachers. Reading is emphasized within the curriculum, with teachers introducing a diverse range of books that inspire pupils to become avid readers. The school’s library is inviting and well-utilized, providing students with opportunities to explore various authors and genres.
A new phonics system has been implemented, with staff well-trained to deliver consistent phonics instruction. This approach ensures that children in Reception start their reading journey effectively, with books matched to their learning levels to promote early success. Teachers monitor pupils' progress closely, allowing for timely support for those who may struggle with reading.
The curriculum is well-structured, and all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, experience a broad and balanced education. Vocabulary development is prioritized from early years, aiding pupils in their writing and problem-solving skills in subjects like mathematics. However, the revised curriculum in subjects beyond English and mathematics is still in the early stages of implementation, leading to some pupils not achieving their full potential in these areas. Subject leaders are yet to evaluate the effectiveness of the wider curriculum thoroughly.
Support for pupils with special educational needs has improved, but past shortcomings in identifying their needs have been acknowledged. Leaders are taking steps to enhance this aspect of provision. Personal development is thoughtfully integrated into the curriculum, with pupils learning about health and relationships through various programs. The school promotes strong social skills and a calm environment, with pupils exhibiting supportive behavior towards one another.
Governance has been strengthened, with governors receiving training to fulfill their responsibilities effectively. They are well-informed about the school's strengths and areas for improvement, providing both support and challenge to school leaders. Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained and systems in place to manage risks and ensure pupil safety.
Overall, Chislet Church of England Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a nurturing and high-quality educational experience for its pupils, with ongoing efforts to refine and enhance its curriculum and support systems.
