Christ Church Primary School in Burton-on-Trent has been recognized for its effective educational practices during an inspection conducted on October 8 and 9, 2024. The school has successfully maintained the high standards established in its previous inspection, which rated it as good for overall effectiveness. The school environment is characterized by a strong sense of community where pupils are encouraged to love learning and develop a love for others. The values upheld by the school are integral to its operations, fostering an atmosphere of mindfulness, support, and tolerance among students. Pupils exhibit resilience and ambition, striving for excellence in their academic pursuits.
The relationships within the school are warm and positive, contributing to a safe and secure environment for all students. Pupils understand the importance of good behavior and feel comfortable expressing their concerns, knowing they will be heard and supported. The school offers a variety of after-school clubs and educational trips, which enhance the learning experience and broaden students' horizons. These activities are well-received and appreciated by the pupils, who take pride in their achievements and the opportunities provided to them.
In terms of academic performance, pupils are engaged in their lessons and work diligently to achieve their best. The curriculum is ambitious and designed to ensure that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, can learn effectively across various subjects. The school has implemented a curriculum that builds knowledge progressively, allowing most pupils to recall previous learning. However, some students require additional opportunities to revisit earlier material to reinforce their understanding.
As pupils advance in their education, they develop critical skills such as inquiry, reasoning, and problem-solving. While many take advantage of opportunities to deepen their understanding, not all pupils fully utilize these chances. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and effectively communicate essential information to students. Across all year groups and subjects, pupils confidently use advanced vocabulary, reflecting the high expectations set by the school.
The school has established effective processes to identify and support pupils with additional needs, ensuring they can access the full curriculum. This success is attributed to the commitment and expertise of the staff, as well as the strong relationships they cultivate with students. The school promotes a love of reading from the outset, with a structured phonics program that enables most pupils to read fluently by the end of Year 2.
Improving attendance is a priority for the school, which has taken steps to work closely with families and external agencies to address issues of absence and persistent absenteeism. The school has made progress in this area, with parents increasingly recognizing the importance of regular attendance for their children's education. The early years provision is strong, with children in Nursery and Reception quickly adapting to school routines and benefiting from a stimulating learning environment.
Pupils receive a comprehensive personal, social, health, and economic education, which prepares them to be responsible and active citizens. The school emphasizes the importance of mental and physical health, teaching pupils how to make informed decisions and stay safe. Staff members feel supported in their roles, with leaders prioritizing their well-being and workload management. Governors are actively involved in the school, holding it accountable and ensuring that their efforts positively impact the educational experience.
The safeguarding arrangements at Christ Church Primary School are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school is aware of areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all pupils consistently apply their learning and in continuing to enhance attendance strategies. Overall, the school demonstrates a commitment to maintaining high standards and fostering a positive learning environment for its students.
