All Saints Carshalton Church of England Primary School, located in Carshalton, Surrey, has been recognized for its effective action in maintaining the standards established during its previous inspection. The headteacher, Laurielle Jackson, leads the school, which is part of the Southwark Diocesan Board of Education multi-academy trust. The trust is overseen by acting CEO Mark Burnett and a board of trustees chaired by Jonathan Sedgwick.
Pupils at All Saints are described as happy and proud to be part of the school community. The staff prioritize the safety and well-being of the students, fostering an environment where pupils behave well and understand the importance of kindness and equality. This positive atmosphere contributes to high standards of attainment, particularly in reading and mathematics by the end of Year 6. The school’s core values, including friendship, respect, and courage, are integral to daily life, with pupils looking up to their peers who exemplify these traits.
The school promotes a strong sense of community involvement, encouraging pupils to engage in charitable activities and fundraising for both local and national causes. An extensive enrichment program allows students to explore various interests, including sports, music, and the arts. Many pupils participate in musical ensembles, showcasing their talents in concerts and community performances.
The curriculum at All Saints is well-structured and rich, ensuring that learning is carefully sequenced from early years through Year 6. This approach helps pupils build knowledge and skills across a wide range of subjects, including Spanish and music. The governance of the school is robust, with experienced individuals supporting the school to ensure high achievement and readiness for secondary education.
Staff members are well-trained and supported in delivering the curriculum effectively. The trust provides opportunities for professional development, enabling staff to share best practices with colleagues from other schools. Teachers present subject content clearly and offer pupils opportunities to recall and practice what they have learned. For instance, in music lessons, pupils quickly incorporate new notes into their practice, demonstrating effective learning strategies.
The teaching of reading has improved since the last inspection, with staff employing a consistent approach that matches books to the sounds pupils know. Weaker readers receive targeted support to help them catch up. The school library, with its inviting reading areas and diverse book selection, plays a crucial role in promoting a love of reading among pupils.
In addition to academic subjects, the school emphasizes the development of writing skills. While there has been progress in areas such as composition and vocabulary, some pupils still require additional practice in handwriting and spelling to enhance their overall writing fluency. The school is committed to addressing these areas to ensure all pupils can express themselves effectively in writing.
Pupils are generally attentive and hardworking, with the school fostering essential skills such as concentration from an early age. Attendance rates are consistently high, reflecting the positive engagement of pupils with their education. The school enriches its curriculum through well-planned visits and experiences, promoting pupils' broader development and teaching them about health, safety, and respect for different cultures and religions.
The arrangements for safeguarding at All Saints are effective, ensuring that pupils feel safe and supported. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in providing consistent support for pupils with specific writing challenges. The school is encouraged to continue its efforts to enhance writing skills and adapt teaching to meet the diverse needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.
Overall, All Saints Carshalton Church of England Primary School demonstrates a commitment to maintaining high educational standards and fostering a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils. The school’s leadership and staff are dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring that all students are well-prepared for their future educational journeys.