The Hendreds Church of England School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 21 November 2023

The 'Hendreds spirit' pervades the school, embodying the values of respect, courage and kindness. Pupils are proud when staff notice them living out these values. They are equally thrilled when their classmates receive this important recognition. Pupils talk positively about helping one another and being caring. On the playground, older pupils undertake their role as 'watchdogs' with enthusiasm and dedication. They help to organise games and make sure that no one is left out. Pupils enthuse about the residential trips they attend and the adventurous activities that these involve. The school makes sure that everyone gets to take part, broadening their horizons. In school, pupils are encouraged to join in with extra- curricular clubs, such as the weekly judo that all key stage 1 pupils enjoy attending. A calm and positive atmosphere is evident throughout the school. Pupils do not worry about the behaviour of others. They are confident that staff will sort out any fallings-out. Pupils understand the importance of the 'SAFE' rules when inside. They know that these help create a safe environment for everyone. Pupils are eager to learn. There is a well-thought-through curriculum designed to meet the needs of the mixed-age classes. Pupils remember what they have previously learned and are keen to deepen their thinking.

What the school should improve

• In a small number of subjects, work to refine the curriculum for the mixed-age classes is ongoing. There is still work to be done to make sure that the content enables pupils to build knowledge in all curriculum areas. As a result, some pupils do not achieve as deeply as they could across all areas of the curriculum. Leaders need to ensure that the curriculum in all subjects is equally well structured and coherent.
• In some lessons, adults do not check to make sure that pupils have understood important concepts. Pupils do not always know what they need to do to complete tasks and activities. This means that pupils do not always learn as well as they could. Leaders need to ensure that all staff understand and adhere to the expectations around assessment and checking so that pupils can be supported to complete activities and learn the intended content.

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