Chingford Foundation School, located in Chingford, London, underwent an inspection on October 4 and 5, 2023, and received an overall effectiveness rating of Good. This marks a significant improvement from its previous inspection, which rated the school as Requires Improvement. The leadership team, headed by Gary Haines and supported by the Chingford Academies Trust, has implemented high expectations for pupil conduct and behavior, resulting in a positive school environment. Established routines have been put in place to promote good behavior, and pupils show respect for their teachers and peers, fostering a culture of inclusivity and respect for diverse backgrounds.
The curriculum at Chingford Foundation School is broad and well-structured, with teachers demonstrating expertise in their subjects. The school emphasizes the importance of life skills through its personal, social, and health education curriculum. The careers program effectively guides pupils in understanding future opportunities related to their learning. The sixth form is highlighted as a strength, with students serving as role models for younger pupils, exhibiting high attendance and punctuality, and engaging in mentoring and enrichment activities.
Communication from the leadership team has improved, ensuring that staff and parents are well-informed about changes and developments within the school. The curriculum delivery has been enhanced, and there is a focus on maintaining high standards of pupil behavior. The Trust provides necessary resources to support ongoing development within the school.
While the school has made notable progress, there are areas for improvement. The curriculum is well-established, with leaders identifying key knowledge for pupils to learn. However, there is a need for more consistent checks on pupil understanding to address misconceptions and knowledge gaps. Teachers are encouraged to routinely assess prior learning before introducing new concepts, ensuring that all pupils have a solid foundation before progressing.
Pupils are encouraged to read for pleasure, with dedicated time for reading incorporated into the school day. Support is provided for those who require additional help with reading, enhancing their fluency and comprehension skills. The school environment is calm and orderly, with a well-understood behavior policy that has led to improved attitudes towards learning. However, attendance rates have not yet returned to pre-pandemic levels, and some pupils struggle with punctuality, which can hinder their learning experience.
The school effectively identifies and supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they have access to the same curriculum as their peers. A wide range of enrichment clubs is available, promoting student engagement and leadership opportunities through a new house system. The school organizes various careers events, allowing pupils to learn about different professions from visiting professionals.
The safeguarding arrangements at Chingford Foundation School are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. To further improve, the school must focus on consistently checking pupil understanding and implementing procedures to enhance attendance and punctuality. By addressing these areas, the school can continue to build on its successes and provide an excellent educational experience for all its pupils.
