Charleton Church of England Academy is recognized as a good school, providing a positive environment for its pupils. The school emphasizes the core value of collectively empowering excellence, which is reflected in the supportive and encouraging atmosphere fostered by the staff. Pupils feel happy and safe, demonstrating care and respect for one another, and they are motivated to work hard. The school effectively addresses any instances of bullying, ensuring that pupils who require assistance in managing their emotions receive the necessary support.
The curriculum is underpinned by Christian values, allowing pupils to actively contribute to the school community. Initiatives such as a rewards system for reading and roles within the ethos committee and as playground buddies highlight the involvement of pupils in shaping their environment. The school also offers rich opportunities beyond the classroom, including outdoor learning experiences at forest school and well-planned trips that broaden pupils' understanding of the world.
Since joining the Learning Academy Partnership, the school has undergone significant staffing changes, which have caused some unease among parents. However, the school has taken steps to engage with parents through partnership groups and parent ambassadors. Leaders recognize the need to enhance communication and build trust with the parental community.
In the Nursery, children thrive as they develop into inquisitive and confident learners. Staff focus on vocabulary development and present information in engaging ways. The relationships between younger and older pupils are warm, and children enjoy listening to their teachers read. The teaching of early reading has seen improvements, with a well-organized phonics program in place that enables children to learn to read quickly. Regular assessments ensure that pupils are supported in their reading journey, and those who struggle receive effective help.
The mathematics, reading, and writing curriculum is well-established, with teachers planning lessons that build on prior knowledge. However, there is a need for better support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, as some low-ability pupils do not receive the precise assistance required to overcome learning barriers. Consequently, progress for these pupils may not be as strong as it should be.
The school leaders and staff have collaborated with other schools in the multi-academy trust to develop an ambitious curriculum that promotes a healthy lifestyle and a strong understanding of various faiths. Pupils engage with high-quality texts and diverse writing genres, enhancing their learning experience.
Governors are aware of the importance of regular school attendance, yet pupil absence remains high, leading to gaps in learning. Leaders are committed to addressing this issue and ensuring that all parents share the same high expectations for attendance.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with designated leads working closely with external agencies to ensure pupil safety. Staff are vigilant and trained to recognize signs of harm, following established procedures diligently.
To improve, the school must continue to engage with parents to address concerns regarding changes in ethos since becoming an academy. Additionally, it is crucial to provide adequate support for low-ability pupils with special educational needs to ensure they can access the curriculum effectively. Overall, Charleton Church of England Academy continues to provide a nurturing and supportive environment for its pupils, with a commitment to ongoing improvement.
