Chalkwell Hall Infant School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is a good school.

Pupils achieve well as a result of teaching that is rarely less than good and is often outstanding. Pupils consistently exceed national expectations in the Year 2 teacher assessments. Basic literacy and numeracy skills are taught thoroughly so that pupils are very well prepared for the next stage of their education.

Behaviour is good in classes. Pupils say they feel safe in school. At playtimes, when the infant and junior pupils share the crowded playground, behaviour is outstanding.

The headteacher, deputy headteacher and governing body have built very strong links with parents and carers and have ensured that pupils have conti...nued to achieve well. Parents and carers think highly of the school and appreciate the school's 'open door' policy and the ease of communicating with the school via email or text messages. Disabled pupils and those who have special educational needs do well because their needs are understood and they are given the right support to help them to succeed.

It is not yet an outstanding school because : On occasions, teachers do not check on pupils' understanding and adjust their teaching accordingly. That means, for example, that more-able pupils are not always set harder tasks and other pupils are not always given extra help to overcome any misunderstanding when new ideas are introduced. In the Reception classes, the learning activities do not always challenge the more-able children.

Though the strategies for helping teachers to improve their practice are good, the headteacher and deputy headteacher do not set timescales to ensure improvement happens at a rapid pace.

Information about this school

This is a larger than average-size primary school. The school shares the site with Chalkwell Hall Junior School.

The two schools share the same playground and dining hall. There are 11 classes. The proportion of disabled pupils and those who have special educational needs supported through school action is well below average.

The proportion supported at school action plus or with a statement of special educational needs is also well below average. The proportion of pupils known to be eligible for the pupil premium is below average. This extra funding is for looked-after children, those known to be eligible for free school meals and pupils with a parent in the armed forces.

There have been several changes in teaching staff since the last inspection. There are three newly qualified teachers. The governors of the infant and junior school are jointly responsible for the Conkers Club, which provides a breakfast and after-school club.

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