Chudleigh Knighton Church of England Primary School, located in Devon, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 9, 2023. The pupils at Chudleigh Knighton express a strong affection for their school, highlighting the importance of friendship as a core value. They engage positively with one another, and older students take pride in welcoming newcomers, fostering an inclusive environment. The staff maintain high expectations, which encourages students to work diligently and strive for success. This positive atmosphere is reflected in the students' behavior, as they demonstrate good conduct both in classrooms and throughout the school. Instances of bullying are infrequent, and any issues that arise are addressed promptly by the staff.
The school promotes active participation among students, who contribute to school life through roles in the school council and ethos team. They take pride in their community involvement, such as fundraising for educational support for a child in Uganda, which they look forward to connecting with virtually. Chudleigh Knighton offers a variety of extracurricular activities that allow students to explore their interests and talents, including enrichment activities, music, and sports.
The leadership team has effectively structured the curriculum, ensuring it is well-planned and broken down into manageable steps, starting from the early years. A strong emphasis is placed on reading, with an updated phonics curriculum designed to help students develop confidence in their early reading skills. The books provided are well-aligned with the phonics knowledge of the children, enabling many to spell new words with assurance. Staff are adept at identifying students who may require additional support, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance. However, there is a need for staff to become more familiar with the phonics curriculum to enhance the reading fluency of all pupils.
Older students enjoy daily reading sessions with their teachers and have access to a new library area, which encourages a love for reading and discussion about various authors. In mathematics, the curriculum has been strengthened, with younger pupils practicing counting and older students collaborating to solve problems, demonstrating a solid understanding of mathematical vocabulary.
The school is attentive to the needs of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, breaking down learning into manageable steps to facilitate their success. The positive behavior of students significantly contributes to their learning experience, as they engage enthusiastically in lessons. Clear routines are established, which are understood by all students, including those in early years. Attendance is monitored rigorously, and leaders encourage good attendance among pupils.
Chudleigh Knighton prioritizes the personal, social, and emotional development of its students, offering a rich variety of activities that promote well-being. Older pupils can develop leadership skills through various roles, fostering a supportive atmosphere within the school. The school prepares students to be respectful, kind, and tolerant individuals, ready for their future endeavors.
Staff members express pride in their work at the school, feeling well-supported by leadership and each other. Leaders actively assist teachers in managing their workload and provide numerous professional development opportunities. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with thorough procedures in place to ensure the safety of pupils. Staff are well-trained and vigilant in addressing any concerns regarding student welfare. Overall, Chudleigh Knighton Church of England Primary School continues to provide a nurturing and effective educational environment for its students.
