Ofsted conducted a short inspection of Chelsfield Primary School on 19 March 2019, following the previous inspection in September 2012, which rated the school as good. The findings indicate that the school continues to maintain a good standard of education. The leadership team has effectively upheld the quality of education, fostering a strong ethos characterized by a positive attitude among staff and students. The small size of the school allows for close relationships among pupils and staff, which helps meet the diverse needs of all students. Pupils demonstrate good behavior and appreciate the fairness of the school's rewards and sanctions system.
Leaders are proactive in identifying areas for improvement, particularly in reading and writing. Recent initiatives have led to excellent outcomes in reading at key stage 2, while efforts are ongoing to enhance writing outcomes, especially for middle-prior-attainers. The school recognizes the challenges posed by mixed-year groups and supports new teachers in addressing the varied academic needs of students. Pupils express enjoyment in collaborating with older peers, which has positively influenced their progress.
Language and communication development is a priority, with targeted support for younger pupils. The school emphasizes the importance of communication, as demonstrated in assemblies where pupils engage in singing and language activities. In mathematics, effective teaching encourages pupils to analyze problems and develop independence in their learning. The school fosters a culture where pupils are encouraged to seek solutions before asking for help.
Governors play an active role in challenging and supporting the school, particularly in light of a recent decline in student enrollment. They ensure that leaders are held accountable while also providing necessary support for long-term stability. The school aims to prepare pupils to be confident learners equipped with the skills needed for their future education.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with leaders ensuring that all procedures are effective and regularly reviewed. Staff receive ongoing training, and recruitment checks are thorough, ensuring the safety of pupils. Students feel secure and well-informed about safety protocols, including online safety, and appreciate the systems in place for sharing concerns.
The inspection focused on three key areas: writing progress in key stage 2, early years outcomes, and reading quality. The school has implemented a new writing scheme to improve outcomes for middle-prior-attainers, with positive results observed in pupils' confidence and independence in writing. In early years, the school has engaged support to enhance communication, language, and literacy outcomes, leading to an increase in children on track to meet early learning goals.
Pupils demonstrate strong reading skills, showing confidence and enjoyment in their reading. They articulate their understanding of vocabulary and utilize effective reading strategies. The school’s emphasis on phonics and high-quality teaching has contributed to strong reading progress across all year groups.
Moving forward, the school is encouraged to continue supporting early years development and to further improve writing outcomes for middle-prior-attaining pupils in key stage 2. The commitment to maintaining high standards and addressing areas for growth reflects the school's dedication to providing a quality education for all its students.
