Churchfields Infants’ School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

What is it like to attend this school?

The school offers a curriculum and ethos which focus on how best to support young children to learn, play, and develop. All staff work to foster pupils' love of learning. This is summed up in the school's motto of, 'Growing Together: Every Day in Every Way.'



The school has very high expectations. These aspirations are realised. Staff work to ensure that pupils achieve the best that they can.

The school prioritises ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), have the English skills to communicate effectively. The school sees this as fundamental to pupils' future academic success and enjoyment of learni...ng. Pupils' high standard of writing reflects how well the excellent quality of the curriculum and school routines enable them to express themselves.

Pupils play and learn happily together. Their behaviour is exemplary. Pupils know that they can rely on their trusted adults to sort things out if there are ever any 'falling outs'.

The school feels calm and learning is purposeful. Staff want pupils to develop their independence and curiosity. An example of this is in science, where pupils are encouraged to tackle tasks independently, applying the knowledge that has been taught.

Leaders have clear routines to engage with parents and carers, and have built positive relationships. Because of this, the vast majority of parents are extremely happy with how the school supports their children.

What does the school do well and what does it need to do better?

The school has planned precisely what pupils will learn and when this will be taught.

This ambitious curriculum is designed and tailored to meet the needs of all pupils. For example, in mathematics, the curriculum is structured to build and develop pupils' fluency. Having a strong understanding of fundamental concepts means that pupils can apply these to a range of mathematical contexts, such as using addition and subtraction facts to understand simple multiplications.

This well sequenced curriculum means that pupils' understanding develops exceptionally well over time.

The school has carefully considered how to teach phonics. Clear training means that this curriculum is successfully delivered by staff.

Staff check pupils' reading and phonics knowledge often. This means that any gaps in knowledge are swiftly identified. Where pupils are finding aspects more challenging, staff ensure that these pupils have additional lessons to close any gaps and to help these pupils to catch up quickly.

Books are closely matched to pupils' stage of reading. This helps to develop pupils' confidence and enjoyment of reading. Staff model how sections of text might be read with expression, helping pupils to be enthusiastic about the books that they are reading.

In early years, staff know children exceptionally well. Activities are planned to develop understanding while also reflecting children's interests and developing these further. Children's learning thrives in the vibrant environment.

For example, children have fun using the outdoor space to develop their learning and physical skills. They work together to identify plants and creatures in the school's wildlife garden, discussing natural processes, such as the school's stick insect shedding its skin. Staff help children to make links to previous learning, such as a trip to Epping Forest, where they learned about snakes shedding their skins.

Pupils with SEND are supported very well. All staff keep a close eye on pupils' learning, identifying any concerns that there may be. Teachers make appropriate adaptations to teaching or provide extra help to meet pupils' needs precisely.

As a result, pupils with SEND learn exceptionally well.

Pupils behave extremely well. This is because the school is clear about its routines and expectations.

These clear expectations are also shared with pupils and families, for example the importance of regular attendance. Most pupils attend school well. Pupils take pride in their work and enjoy sharing their learning.

The programme for personal, social, and health education is well considered. Pupils learn about values and people who embody these. The nurturing environment is further reinforced by the school's practice of providing adult role models who shape conversations and help pupils to discuss their feelings.

The school supports and develops pupils' personal interests. This includes actively encouraging pupils to take part in the wide range of extra-curricular activities. The taught curriculum is supplemented with a variety of clubs, such as art, chess, film, and a very popular cricket team.

Pupils also benefit from well-considered school trips and visits. For instance, a visit to the Barbican enabled pupils to attend a London Symphony Orchestra concert, offering them a valuable learning experience about classical music and various instruments.

The governing body has made sure that it has received training so that it is able to carry out its role with sufficient expertise.

Staff feel well supported and described how they love working at the school. This nurturing environment means that pupils receive an excellent educational experience at this school.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.

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