The Grosvenor Park Church of England Academy, located in Chester, Cheshire, was inspected on January 17 and 18, 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with consistent evaluations across various aspects including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school has not been previously inspected under section five of the Education Act 2005, as it converted to an academy in 2018.
Pupils at the academy are described as happy and polite, feeling safe and well cared for. The leadership has fostered an environment where students can express their concerns to adults. Staff are knowledgeable about their pupils and families, allowing them to provide tailored support. High expectations are set for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, and pupils generally meet these expectations with positive attitudes towards learning.
The school promotes personal development effectively, offering a variety of activities that nurture talents in music and art, which are well-received by students. Additionally, pupils participate in numerous clubs, including choir, dance, and sports. The school also emphasizes learning beyond the classroom, utilizing local cultural attractions to enhance educational experiences.
The curriculum aligns with the national standards and is tailored to reflect the local context, such as Chester's Roman heritage. This approach engages pupils and deepens their understanding of their community. In many subjects, the curriculum is designed to build knowledge progressively, supporting strong academic achievement. However, in some areas, the clarity of what pupils should learn and when is less defined, which can hinder teachers' ability to build on prior knowledge effectively.
Reading is prioritized within the school, with phonics instruction starting in the Reception class. The phonics program is implemented consistently, helping pupils develop confidence and fluency in reading. Teachers monitor progress closely, providing additional support to those who struggle, ensuring that all pupils can keep pace with their peers. The enjoyment of reading is fostered through a diverse selection of books and dedicated reading times.
The school has effective safeguarding measures in place, with staff trained to recognize and respond to any concerns regarding pupil safety. Pupils are educated about online safety and the risks associated with cyberbullying.
Despite the positive aspects, there are areas for improvement. In some subjects, the expectations for pupil knowledge and the timing of instruction need to be clearer to facilitate better learning outcomes. Additionally, some staff, particularly in early years and key stage one, need to adapt their teaching methods to better support pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they can access the same curriculum as their peers.
Overall, the Grosvenor Park Church of England Academy demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and enriching educational environment. The leadership, staff, and governors work collaboratively to ensure that pupils achieve well, and there is a strong emphasis on well-being and workload management for staff. The school is well-regarded by parents and the community, reflecting its positive impact on the lives of its pupils.
