Chewton Mendip Church of England VA Primary School has been recognized for its overall effectiveness, receiving a 'Good' rating in various areas including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school is situated in Chewton Mendip, Somerset, and serves a mixed-gender population of 106 pupils aged 4 to 11. The recent inspection, conducted on December 5 and 6, 2023, highlighted the school's commitment to enriching the lives of its students through a well-planned curriculum and a strong emphasis on its core values of kindness, respect, perseverance, responsibility, honesty, and courage.
Pupils at Chewton Mendip appreciate the supportive environment fostered by the school, which encourages confidence through various performances and community engagement activities. The curriculum is designed with high expectations, and most students respond positively, although there are instances of low-level disruption that can affect the learning experience. The early years program is particularly effective, with children quickly adapting to school routines.
The school promotes leadership opportunities for pupils, such as participation in the pupil voice team and wellbeing champions, which help to foster a sense of responsibility and community involvement. Pupils feel heard and supported by staff, contributing to a safe and nurturing atmosphere. The school also engages with the local community through events like the 'soup lunch,' where students can showcase their talents.
The new headteacher has maintained a strong focus on curriculum development, ensuring that it is sequenced effectively to meet the learning needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school has made strides in monitoring the teaching of subjects like mathematics, leading to improved delivery and understanding among students. However, some subjects require more oversight to ensure consistent teaching quality and effective learning outcomes.
Reading instruction begins early, with staff trained to implement a phonics program that supports pupils in developing their reading and writing skills. This approach has proven successful, as evidenced by pupils' growing confidence and ability to articulate their learning. The school fosters a love of reading through connections with authors and poets, enhancing students' engagement with literature.
While most pupils exhibit positive attitudes towards learning, occasional disruptions can hinder the educational experience. The school is aware of persistent absence issues among certain groups and is actively working to address the underlying causes by supporting families.
Extracurricular activities, such as art and coding clubs, help nurture students' talents and interests, while sports competitions promote teamwork and collaboration. Pupils demonstrate a clear understanding of equality and diversity, enriched by their studies of different cultures.
Governance has improved since the last inspection, with governors gaining a better understanding of the curriculum and providing effective support and challenge to school leaders. The school has successfully engaged with parents, fostering a collaborative environment that benefits students' educational experiences.
The safeguarding arrangements at Chewton Mendip are effective, ensuring that pupils' welfare is prioritized. The school is committed to continuous improvement, addressing areas such as low-level disruption and the need for enhanced oversight in certain subjects to ensure that all pupils achieve their full potential. Overall, Chewton Mendip Church of England VA Primary School is a thriving educational institution that prioritizes the holistic development of its students while maintaining a strong connection with the community.
