Chennestone Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 28 February 2023

Pupils are proud to belong to this friendly, nurturing primary school. They are happy in this vibrant community and feel safe. Pupils show high levels of respect for people different to themselves. Pupils do not worry about bullying. They know that the strong team of adults who care for them will help resolve any friendship issues or unkindness quickly. Staff have high expectations of behaviour and achievement. Pupils work hard to rise and meet these. There are many opportunities for pupils to develop their talents and interests. They enjoy and benefit from a wide range of clubs such as cheerleading, football, choir and art. Older pupils take on leadership roles, such as anti-bullying ambassadors or prefects, to become important role models for younger pupils. Pupils develop citizenship skills through their charity work and as part of the 'pupil parliament'. This also gives them a voice in the running of the school and helps pupils feel inspired to help others. Leaders and staff are ambitious for every pupil, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). They have a clear determination for every pupil to be fully involved in the life of the school and to prepare them for the next stages of their learning effectively.

What the school should improve

• In a few foundation subjects, and in some aspects of the early years, the curriculum is not yet fully effective. Leaders have not precisely laid out what knowledge and skills to be learned. This sometimes leads to teachers being unclear about what key knowledge to teach or what understanding to check across a series of lessons. Leaders need to continue refining the curriculum so that it identifies the precise sequenced knowledge that pupils must know and remember.
• The many changes in staffing, governance and leadership have unsettled some parents and staff. Much of this turbulence has been beyond the control of governors. Although most staff and parents are enthused by recent changes and improvements, a significant minority feel disengaged, wanting more information and stability. Governors and leaders need to prioritise rebuilding morale and levels of communication moving forwards.

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