Roxwell Church of England Primary School, located in Chelmsford, Essex, underwent an inspection on September 26 and 27, 2023. The school has been rated as good overall, with outstanding marks in behavior and attitudes, as well as leadership and management. The quality of education and personal development were also rated as good, while early years provision received a good rating as well. This inspection was significant as it was the first under the current framework since the school converted to an academy in September 2019.
The head of school, Sarah Tate, leads the institution, which is part of the LIFE Education Trust. The trust is overseen by CEO Julian Dutnall and a board of trustees chaired by Louise Douglas. The executive headteacher, Melissa Taylor, is responsible for Roxwell and two other schools. The school has a warm and friendly atmosphere where pupils thrive and engage enthusiastically in all aspects of school life. They exhibit excellent behavior and enjoy their time on the playground, balancing learning with fun.
Staff at Roxwell maintain high expectations for all students, who respond positively to praise and recognition. The school has a system of house points that encourages students to strive for achievements, celebrated during weekly assemblies led by Year 6 head prefects and house captains. Pupils demonstrate strong concentration in lessons, following instructions promptly, which is evident even in the youngest children in the Reception class. The positive attitudes fostered in early years education carry through as students progress through the school.
Roxwell offers numerous opportunities for pupils to engage in activities beyond the classroom, including performances at prestigious venues such as the Royal Albert Hall and Chelmsford Cathedral. The curriculum is carefully structured to support mixed-age classes, with logical sequencing that allows students to build knowledge and skills over time. Subject-specific vocabulary is clearly identified, and the early years curriculum effectively prepares children for future learning.
Teachers possess strong subject knowledge and employ effective questioning techniques to assess understanding and address misconceptions. The school has recently implemented a new system to evaluate pupils' understanding in foundation subjects, although it is still in the early stages of development. Phonics instruction begins in Reception, with well-trained staff ensuring that pupils practice sounds and read texts that align with their learning. Support for pupils who struggle is promptly provided, ensuring that all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, have access to the same curriculum.
The personal development program is well-planned, teaching pupils about healthy lifestyles, positive relationships, and personal safety. The school promotes respect for diversity and encourages pupils to celebrate differences. A variety of extracurricular clubs, including archery and gardening, enrich the students' experiences. The school has made significant strides in leadership, with trust leaders and the governing body maintaining a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. Staff feel valued and supported, contributing to a shared vision for the school's future.
The safeguarding arrangements at Roxwell are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. However, the school recognizes the need to further develop its system for assessing understanding in foundation subjects to gain a clearer picture of curriculum effectiveness. Overall, Roxwell Church of England Primary School is a nurturing environment where pupils are encouraged to excel academically and personally, supported by dedicated staff and a strong leadership team.
