Queen’s Crescent School in Chippenham, Wiltshire, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on February 2 and 3, 2023. The school demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a welcoming environment where pupils feel safe and supported. Relationships between staff and students are positive, fostering a sense of belonging and community. Pupils are encouraged to uphold the school’s golden rules, which contributes to a calm and purposeful atmosphere conducive to learning. The school has established high expectations from the Reception Year, and pupils are eager to learn and share their ideas.
The quality of education at Queen’s Crescent School is commendable, with a particular emphasis on reading. Children begin learning to read as soon as they start school, and the school implements an effective phonics program that helps pupils progress well. Teachers carefully monitor pupils’ understanding and provide support to those at risk of falling behind. The curriculum is ambitious and builds on knowledge from the early years, ensuring that pupils develop a strong foundation in subjects such as mathematics and literacy.
Pupils also have opportunities to develop leadership skills, with older students taking on responsibilities as sports captains and school council representatives. The school promotes inclusion and respect among pupils, who understand the importance of treating each other fairly. They are excited about learning opportunities, such as a planned visit to the Houses of Parliament, which enhances their understanding of democracy.
While the school excels in many areas, there are aspects that require improvement. Leaders recognize the need to clarify the essential knowledge that pupils should acquire in some subjects, particularly in the wider curriculum. This lack of clarity can lead to gaps in pupils’ knowledge over time. For instance, some pupils struggle to recall important historical facts, indicating that the curriculum may not be effectively reinforcing key concepts.
Assessment practices vary across subjects, with mathematics and phonics benefiting from well-utilized assessment information. However, in some wider curriculum subjects, assessment is not as effective, leaving leaders without a clear understanding of what pupils can do and remember. Addressing these gaps will be crucial for ensuring that all pupils build their knowledge effectively.
The school’s approach to personal, social, and health education is strong, with pupils learning about consent, positive relationships, and mental health. They engage in activities such as breathing exercises and yoga, which contribute to their overall well-being. The school also emphasizes the importance of healthy eating and being active, helping pupils understand how these factors contribute to a healthy lifestyle.
Safeguarding arrangements at Queen’s Crescent School are effective, with staff well-trained to identify signs of harm. Leaders ensure that pupils and families receive timely support when needed, working closely with external agencies to maintain a safe environment. The school’s recruitment processes are thorough, ensuring that all adults working with children are suitable.
Overall, Queen’s Crescent School is a good school that provides a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in clarifying curriculum expectations and enhancing assessment practices, the school’s commitment to high standards of education and pupil well-being is evident. The positive relationships within the school community and the focus on inclusion and personal development contribute to a nurturing atmosphere where pupils can thrive.
