CHURCHSTOKE C.P. SCHOOL

Overview

Churchstoke C.P. School is described as a welcoming community where strong relationships foster a "relaxed and friendly atmosphere for learning." Staff demonstrate "consistent sensitivity and respect," resulting in good behaviour and effective tailoring of provision to meet individual needs. However, the curriculum currently lacks overall coherence, meaning some pupils are not sufficiently motivated or challenged to make the progress they could.

Strengths

• Staff know pupils well and "tailor provision successfully to ensure that pupil’s individual needs are met effectively."
• Teachers provide a "stimulating variety of learning experiences" and make worthwhile use of visits and visitors to enrich learning.
• Staff develop pupils’ reading, numeracy, digital, and Welsh language skills effectively.
• Governors provide "strong and insightful support" and have collaborated well with the headteacher to secure notable improvements since his appointment.
• Leaders have established a clear vision that is well understood by staff, who share a commitment to improvement and professional development.

Areas to improve

• The curriculum lacks overall coherence, with too many learning experiences not matched well enough to the needs and interests of all pupils.
• Pupils do not write at length often enough to fully develop the range and quality of their written work.
• Self-evaluation processes need to focus more keenly on how well the curriculum and teaching enable all pupils to make progress.

Safeguarding

The report states that governors have "improved procedures to safeguard pupils" and strengthened relationships with parents and the community successfully.