Chilworth CofE (Aided) Infant School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is an outstanding school. For a number of years, pupils in Year 2 have reached well above average standards because : of the excellent progress they make across the school, particularly in reading and mathematics.

Adults keep a close check on how well pupils have understood what they are learning. They adapt their explanations or the tasks pupils are working on, to make sure that all pupils learn successfully. Teaching is never less than good and is often outstanding.

All adults make sure that pupils get frequent feedback about their work, which helps them to know exactly what they need to improve. Pupils are routinely expected to respond to this feedback.... The linking of letters and the sounds they make (phonics) is particularly well taught and pupils quickly become confident readers.

Pupils write for a range of purposes but sometimes their progress is hampered by un-exciting tasks. Mathematics is also taught very well; pupils have lots of opportunities to develop their confidence when working with practical resources. Pupils make an excellent start to their learning in Reception because they are expertly taught.

Teaching assistants are a highly effective part of the teaching team and contribute very well to the learning of pupils and the memorable experiences which so engage all pupils Pupils behave exceptionally well and their high enthusiasm for learning helps to promote their excellent academic progress. Governors and the headteacher make sure that all the statutory requirements are met, including those for keeping pupils safe. Pupils are extremely well looked after at school, and are exceptionally well informed about how to keep themselves safe, particularly around water or in the woods.

There are well-established systems to keep track of how well pupils are learning. Any issues are picked up very quickly and highly effective strategies are put in place to address these quickly. The strong vision for ensuring all pupils achieve the very best they can is well developed by leaders, and high expectations are shared widely by everyone working in the school.

Information about this school

This is a small infant school, with one class for each year group. Almost all pupils are White British. A very small number of pupils are from a range of different minority ethnic backgrounds.

Very few pupils speak English as an additional language. The proportion of disabled pupils and those with special educational needs is below average. The proportion of pupils supported at school action is low.

The proportion of pupils supported at school action plus or with a statement of special educational need is below average. The proportion of pupils supported through the pupil premium is much lower than the national average. This funding supports those pupils known to have been eligible for free school meals, children in the care of the local authority and pupils who have a parent serving in the armed services.

The school does not have any pupils from the latter two categories. All of the teachers have joined the school since the previous inspection. The headteacher is a Local Leader of Education and supports two other schools.

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