Cheam Fields Primary Academy, located in Sutton, Surrey, has recently undergone an inspection that has resulted in an outstanding rating across all key areas, including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The principal, Helen Shaw, leads the school, which is part of the LEO Academy Trust, overseen by CEO Phillip Hedger and a board of trustees chaired by Dean Clark. The school has created a nurturing and purposeful learning environment that emphasizes the values of learning, excellence, and opportunity. This environment fosters the development of essential life skills in pupils, such as reading, mathematics, and digital literacy, while encouraging curiosity and enthusiasm for learning.
Pupils at Cheam Fields Primary Academy demonstrate high motivation and engagement due to the exciting curriculum offered. This enthusiasm translates into exceptional academic achievement, with pupils expressing enjoyment in attending school and feeling safe within its environment. The school maintains high attendance rates, and pupils exhibit exemplary behaviour, a reflection of the school's high expectations from the outset, particularly in the early years.
The school provides an impressive range of extracurricular activities, including competitions focused on sustainable development, as well as opportunities for pupils to represent the school at various levels. The extensive offerings in sports, music, and other activities, combined with numerous trips and residential experiences, help develop pupils into well-rounded individuals.
Cheam Fields Primary Academy has designed a highly ambitious curriculum that is carefully structured to meet the needs of pupils at different stages of their learning journey. Teachers are proficient in delivering the curriculum across subjects, demonstrating strong subject knowledge and effective communication skills. This enables them to extend pupils' vocabulary and enhance their use of digital technology. For instance, Year 5 pupils engaged in a history lesson about the Shang Dynasty while utilizing technology to compare and contrast with other civilizations.
The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring their learning is adapted to meet individual requirements. Teachers skillfully check pupils' understanding, allowing them to identify misconceptions and select appropriate activities to enhance learning. This approach was evident in a physical education lesson where pupils applied prior knowledge to improve their swimming techniques.
Reading is a significant focus at Cheam Fields Primary Academy, with a systematic approach to phonics beginning in the Nursery. This foundation allows pupils to gain confidence in their reading skills as they progress through the school. Targeted support is provided for those who need additional help, enabling them to catch up with their peers. Older pupils express enthusiasm for their favorite books, discussing plots and characters with accuracy and advanced vocabulary.
The school also prioritizes personal development, ensuring pupils develop their character beyond academics. This includes fostering an understanding of democracy and safety awareness. Pupils take on various responsibilities, contributing to the school community as ambassadors, advocates, and digital leaders. This involvement cultivates respect, independence, and the ability to work collaboratively.
Cheam Fields Primary Academy is characterized by a forward-thinking and reflective approach, with a systematic method for reviewing and improving all aspects of its operations. Staff appreciate the diverse training opportunities available, which enhance their ability to support pupils effectively. The governance structure allows the school to focus on key priorities, resulting in exceptional performance across all areas. Parents and carers express high levels of support and appreciation for the school's efforts, contributing to a positive community atmosphere. The school's commitment to safeguarding is evident, with effective arrangements in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all pupils.
