Christ Church Church of England Primary School in Weston-super-Mare has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on May 23 and 24, 2023. The school is recognized for its effective leadership, quality of education, and positive behavior and attitudes among pupils. The school community fosters an environment where students feel safe and valued, encouraging them to express themselves freely. Pupils appreciate the school's values, which promote kindness and understanding, and parents commend the school's role in the local community and its supportive staff.
The school has established high expectations for pupil behavior, which is reflected in the polite and well-mannered conduct of students. This positive behavior is evident from the early years, where children demonstrate respect and attentiveness. The strong relationships between pupils and staff contribute to a safe and nurturing atmosphere, allowing students to share their emotions and trust adults to resolve conflicts sensitively.
Pupils enjoy a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, yoga, and chess, and take pride in their roles as eco-councillors and anti-bullying ambassadors. These opportunities enhance their sense of responsibility and pride in contributing to the school community. The leadership team is ambitious and has a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. They have developed a curriculum that caters to the interests and needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.
Reading is prioritized within the school, with pupils engaging with a diverse range of texts that enhance their comprehension and fluency. The phonics program is effectively implemented, ensuring that children learn new sounds and gain confidence in their reading abilities. Support is provided for pupils who may fall behind, allowing them to catch up quickly. The mathematics curriculum is well-structured, helping pupils develop their vocabulary and problem-solving skills.
However, some subjects within the wider curriculum require further development. Leaders need to clarify the key knowledge that pupils should acquire to ensure that learning is built upon effectively over time. For instance, in history, while pupils can recall basic facts, they struggle to connect these to broader concepts, which limits their overall understanding.
The school is committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance to thrive alongside their peers. Most pupils with SEND are able to access the same curriculum effectively. The positive attitudes towards learning are evident across all year groups, with children eager to participate and collaborate.
Attendance remains a challenge for some pupils, impacting their learning experience. Leaders are actively working to improve attendance rates by engaging with parents to address the reasons for absences. The school promotes the importance of regular attendance to enhance educational outcomes.
Pupils' personal development is well-supported, with an emphasis on the values of friendship, equality, and physical and mental well-being. They engage in community service, which fosters a sense of responsibility and empathy. The governing body is proactive in holding leaders accountable and ensuring the school continues to improve.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks. Pupils are educated on online safety, understanding the importance of protecting their personal information. Overall, Christ Church Church of England Primary School provides a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, with a clear path for continued improvement in certain areas.
