Chennestone Primary School, located in Sunbury-on-Thames, Surrey, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on February 28 and March 1, 2023. The school is characterized by a friendly and nurturing environment where pupils feel safe and proud to belong. The community is vibrant, and students demonstrate high levels of respect for diversity. Concerns about bullying are minimal, as pupils trust the staff to address any issues promptly. The school has established high expectations for behavior and achievement, which pupils strive to meet.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, allowing students to explore their interests and talents. Clubs such as cheerleading, football, choir, and art are popular among pupils. Older students take on leadership roles, serving as role models for younger peers through initiatives like anti-bullying ambassadors and prefects. The school promotes citizenship skills through charity work and a pupil parliament, empowering students to contribute to the school community and develop a sense of responsibility.
Leaders and staff are committed to the success of every pupil, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. They aim to ensure that all students are fully engaged in school life and are well-prepared for future learning stages. The curriculum is ambitious and exciting, with teachers receiving high-quality training in key subjects such as phonics and mathematics. However, there are areas where the curriculum lacks clarity, particularly in a few foundation subjects and aspects of early years education. This can lead to uncertainty among teachers regarding essential knowledge and skills to be taught.
Overall, pupils, including those with special educational needs, learn effectively. The school has implemented a rigorous phonics scheme from the start of Reception, helping students develop reading fluency and confidence. Support is provided for weaker readers to ensure they keep pace with their peers. Staff also engage pupils through read-aloud sessions, enhancing vocabulary and comprehension.
The school fosters a positive behavior culture, with staff modeling expected behaviors and language. However, a high turnover of staff has occasionally led to inconsistencies in behavior management. Relationships among pupils and staff reflect a respectful and positive atmosphere.
Chennestone Primary School effectively supports pupils' personal development through a well-structured curriculum. Weekly discussions on current affairs encourage mature debates on relevant issues, such as climate change. Personal, social, and health education lessons equip pupils with essential knowledge and skills for life in modern Britain, promoting values of democracy, tolerance, and equality.
Despite recent challenges, including changes in governance and leadership, the school has maintained effective oversight of its improvement efforts. Most staff express positivity about recent changes and training, while parents appreciate the new leadership. However, some parents seek more stability and communication to feel more informed about school developments.
The safeguarding arrangements at Chennestone Primary School are robust, ensuring that staff are well-equipped to protect pupils. Leaders foster a culture of vigilance, enabling staff to identify and support students at risk. Pupils feel safe and know where to seek help if needed, demonstrating an understanding of online safety.
To enhance its effectiveness, the school must refine its curriculum in certain subjects to provide clearer guidance on knowledge and skills. Additionally, rebuilding staff and parent morale through improved communication and stability is essential for fostering a supportive school environment.
