Cornfield School in Littlehampton has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 29 and 30, 2021. The school provides a supportive and enriching environment where pupils enjoy learning and are well-prepared for their future. The curriculum is broad, covering a wide range of subjects, and is complemented by stimulating enrichment activities. Strong relationships between staff and pupils contribute to a nurturing atmosphere, allowing students to feel safe and secure within the school’s routines and high expectations.
Leaders and teachers prioritize understanding the individual needs and interests of pupils to create ambitious study programs. Regular communication with families ensures that parents are involved in their children's education. The school fosters a sense of pride among pupils regarding their achievements, with impressive displays of their artwork enhancing the school environment. Behaviour is generally positive, with staff effectively managing pupils' anxieties and impulsive behaviours. The school has established a culture where bullying is addressed promptly, and pupils feel confident that their concerns will be taken seriously.
Parents express appreciation for the school's impact on their children's learning and development. They recognize the significant support provided by the staff, which has led to notable achievements. The school leaders are committed to preparing pupils for future employment and independence, ensuring that lesson plans are engaging and relevant. Despite facing staffing challenges, leaders are focused on improving the curriculum and addressing gaps in learning that arose during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The lower school implements an integrated primary-style curriculum that emphasizes reading, writing, and mathematics while also covering foundation subjects. However, there is a need for clearer connections between the lower and upper school curriculums to ensure continuity in learning. Teachers sometimes overlook what pupils already know when they transition to upper school mathematics, which can hinder their progress.
Reading instruction is a strength at Cornfield School, with pupils encouraged to develop positive reading habits. The school provides a well-structured phonics program for early readers and offers a diverse selection of literature for all students. The wider curriculum includes exciting community and enterprise projects, contributing to pupils' overall development. The school’s physical education program is vital for promoting fitness and mental well-being, while the personal, social, and health education curriculum is being refined to better support pupils' needs.
Most pupils demonstrate respect towards staff and peers, maintaining focus on their work. Instances of inappropriate language are addressed promptly by staff, who provide guidance to help pupils refocus. Staff members are dedicated to their professional development, and senior leaders prioritize their well-being by managing workloads effectively.
The school’s safeguarding measures are robust, with leaders meticulously carrying out their responsibilities. Staff are well-trained to identify signs of potential harm, and communication with external agencies is strong, ensuring that pupils receive the necessary support. The school environment fosters a sense of security for pupils, allowing them to thrive.
To enhance its effectiveness, the school should work on improving the coherence of curriculum planning between the lower and upper schools. Additionally, developing a more precise assessment system for personal development topics will help leaders better understand pupils' learning and retention. Overall, Cornfield School continues to provide a supportive and effective educational experience for its pupils.
