Christchurch Primary School, located in Ilford, Essex, was inspected on November 1 and 2, 2022, and received an overall effectiveness rating of Good. The school has a strong commitment to the well-being of its pupils, with leaders, staff, and governors demonstrating a genuine care for students and their families. This dedication is reflected in the excellent pastoral care provided, which includes access to expert therapists and counselors to support pupils with any concerns they may have. The high level of support contributes significantly to pupils' readiness to learn.
The school has established high expectations for behavior, and pupils consistently meet these standards, resulting in a positive learning environment. Students report enjoying their time at school and acknowledge that bullying is rare, with confidence in their teachers to address any issues that arise. The school has implemented effective systems for recording and responding to concerns, ensuring a safe and supportive atmosphere.
A notable strength of Christchurch Primary School is the diverse range of experiences offered to pupils. These include author visits to promote reading and various educational trips, such as a visit to the Museum of London to enhance their understanding of the city's history. The school also provides a wide array of after-school activities that are well-attended, further enriching the pupils' educational experience.
The curriculum at Christchurch Primary School is well thought out and designed to provide a strong foundation in various subjects. Leaders have utilized current research to inform their curriculum design, ensuring that it is ambitious and clearly outlines the learning objectives for pupils. Subjects such as mathematics, science, and history are particularly well-planned, allowing pupils to build their knowledge systematically.
While the curriculum is effectively implemented in many areas, there are instances where it is not fully embedded in everyday practice. The school is currently in the process of reviewing certain aspects of the curriculum and enhancing teachers' skills, which has led to some inconsistencies in implementation. This occasionally results in pupils not developing their subject knowledge as effectively as they could.
Reading is a key focus at the school, with a strong emphasis on developing pupils' literacy skills from an early age. The phonics program is well-structured, enabling most pupils to become confident readers by the end of Year 1. Additional support is provided for those who struggle with reading or are learning English as an additional language, ensuring that all pupils can catch up quickly.
The curriculum also aims to broaden pupils' understanding of the world, promoting British values and respect for different cultures and religions. Pupils are taught about safety and respect for others, contributing to their emotional health and well-being. The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities by identifying their needs early and providing targeted assistance.
Staff well-being is prioritized, with leaders emphasizing the importance of manageable workloads and professional development opportunities. This support is appreciated by staff, who feel valued and equipped to enhance their expertise.
The safeguarding arrangements at Christchurch Primary School are robust, with detailed record-keeping and thorough checks on staff suitability. All staff receive regular training on safeguarding, ensuring they are well-prepared to identify and address any risks to pupils.
To improve further, the school needs to ensure that the implementation of the curriculum is consistently effective across all subjects. This includes leveraging the professional development program to enhance staff expertise and secure a more uniform approach to teaching and learning. Overall, Christchurch Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education and support for its pupils.
