Esher Church School, located in Surrey, continues to be recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on May 1 and 2, 2024. The headteacher, Benjamin Foley, leads the school, which operates under the governance of the Esher Church School Academy Trust, overseen by interim chair Gerard Harper. The school community, including pupils, staff, parents, and carers, expresses overwhelming positivity about the school environment, with high attendance rates and enthusiastic participation in learning activities. Parents have noted that children arrive at school excited and eager to learn.
The school promotes a culture of ambition and excellence, with pupils achieving significantly above national averages in reading, writing, and mathematics by the end of key stage two in 2023. The curriculum is broad and effective, and all Year 4 pupils learn the clarinet, showcasing the school's commitment to providing diverse learning experiences. Pupils also enjoy various extracurricular activities, including chess, cricket, and tennis lessons at a nearby club.
Pupils take pride in their responsibilities, embodying the school’s vision that encourages them to believe in their ability to make a difference. Initiatives such as the eco-ambassadors, who work to reduce plastic waste, and fundraising efforts for the Red Cross demonstrate their commitment to social responsibility. The school has made significant strides in raising expectations for all pupils, and the new curriculum set to launch in September 2024 aims to enhance clarity in teaching across various subjects.
While the school has made many positive changes, there are areas for improvement. The current curriculum lacks clarity in some foundation subjects, which affects the consistency of learning outcomes. Teachers are encouraged to systematically check pupil progress over time to ensure that all students are learning effectively. The school is aware of these challenges and is actively working to implement its ambitious curriculum development plans.
Teachers at Esher Church School exhibit strong subject knowledge and effectively introduce new concepts, using clear modeling and questioning techniques. They are adept at identifying misconceptions and providing tailored support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that these students learn alongside their peers and achieve well.
The reading culture within the school is robust, with a strong emphasis on fostering a love for books among pupils. Younger children enjoy listening to stories, while older pupils engage in reading activities with them, promoting a sense of community and mentorship. The phonics program is well-implemented, and additional support is available for those who need it.
Since the last inspection, the school has successfully improved behavior, with pupils understanding and adhering to the school’s rules of being ready, respectful, and safe. The personal development curriculum emphasizes acceptance and respect, encouraging pupils to engage with the local community through activities such as singing and reading at a care home.
Staff members are proud to work at Esher Church School and appreciate the professional development opportunities provided to them. They are committed to enhancing the quality of education and are supported by trustees who offer effective guidance and challenge. The safeguarding arrangements in place are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
Overall, Esher Church School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education, fostering a positive school culture, and continuously striving for improvement. The school is well-positioned to build on its successes and address the areas identified for development, ensuring that all pupils achieve their full potential across the curriculum.
