1 week Ago By [email protected] (Kerry Ashdown)
A North Staffordshire school previously rated as outstanding has received a good grade in its latest Ofsted inspection. Churchfields Primary School in Chesterton received the top rating in 2015 and inspectors have just published their latest report following their February visit. They described Churchfields as a "happy inclusive school where everyone is welcome" and highlighted its ambitious curriculum.
Support for pupils with SEND (special educational needs and disabilities) was also praised, alongside systems in place to address any attendance concerns. The report said: "There is high ambition for every pupil to ‘be the best’ they can be. The school is determined for all pupils, particularly those with SEND, to achieve as well as they possibly can.
"Many parents and carers agree, one comment being typical when they stated, ‘Churchfields is a place where young people, despite their SEND needs, can really thrive.’ Pupils rise to these high expectations and fizz with enthusiasm when talking about school and their learning. "Pupils benefit from undertaking a wide range of roles and responsibilities - these include being school councillors, prefects, sports leaders and eco-warriors.
These opportunities empower pupils and help to build their confidence and sense of responsibility (and) pupils are proud of the part they play to help make the school even better. "Overall, the school caters for pupils’ personal development well. It helps pupils develop warm and inclusive attitudes towards those who might be different to them.
" Inspectors added "the school should ensure it has a clear and accurate understanding of where it most needs to focus its support for staff and pupils", however. "The evaluation and monitoring of some subjects is not as effective as it could be", the report said. "In some areas of learning, the school has not fully considered what children should learn and when in the early years.
As a result, there is a lack of clarity about how children build upon their previous learning. "This means children do not learn as well as they could in these areas. The school should ensure that all areas of learning are well considered, sequenced and delivered.
" Churchfields School is part of the Collective Vision Trust. Headteacher Diane Beardsmore said: "We are delighted with our recent good Ofsted rating, which reflects the many strengths of Churchfields. The report highlights our commitment to providing a high-quality education, a nurturing environment, and a strong sense of community.
Our success is a reflection of the hard work, dedication, and passion of everyone in our school community—from the children who strive to do their best each day, to our fantastic staff, supportive parents, dedicated governors, and the trust board who all work together to make our school such a special place." Sign up for the latest breaking news and top stories from StokeonTrentLive on WhatsApp.
