Chadsmoor CofE (VC) Junior School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 14 February 2023

Pupils and staff 'enjoy achieving together' at Chadsmoor Church of England (Voluntary Controlled) Junior School. Pupils are happy at school and achieve well. They say that it is a fun place to learn because the teachers care about them. Pupils are kind to each other. They play and learn together happily. Older pupils look after younger pupils in the playground. Pupils know that adults will deal with any bullying quickly. This means that pupils feel safe. Leaders have high expectations for pupils' behaviour. They have developed a simple but effective behaviour system. As a result, pupils behave exceptionally well in class and around the school. They know the school rules and eagerly collect 'dojos' when they follow these. Pupils understand that a few pupils occasionally struggle to manage their own behaviour. Staff ensure that these pupils get the support they need, so that they do not disrupt learning for others. Pupils enjoy exciting opportunities, such as the whole-school trip to Llandudno. Regular 'Fitness Fridays' give pupils opportunities to experience new activities, such as circus skills, archery and a team game inspired by fantasy fiction. Pupils can take on important roles in school, such as those of peer mentors, worship committee members and school councillors. These opportunities help them to become responsible citizens.

What the school should improve

• Leaders are developing how they assess pupils' learning in some foundation subjects. Teachers do not always know how well pupils remember knowledge in these subjects over time. Leaders need to develop assessment systems in foundation subjects so that they have a clear picture of how well pupils are achieving in these subjects.
• Teachers do not ensure that pupils apply the skills they learn in handwriting to their work in other subjects. This means that some pupils do not develop into fluent writers. Leaders should ensure that all teachers insist that pupils apply their handwriting skills accurately in all subjects.
• Some pupils do not have a detailed knowledge and understanding of world faiths and different cultures. As a result, pupils are not as well prepared for life in modern Britain as they might be. Leaders should ensure that the curriculum contains more opportunities for pupils to experience and learn about a variety of faiths and cultures.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)