Churchfield Church School making sustained progress under strengthened leadership and governance – Ofsted
Churchfield Church School is making secure and sustained improvements following decisive action to strengthen leadership and governance, according to its latest Ofsted inspection.
The inspection highlights that leaders at all levels, including trustees in the Bath and Wells Multi Academy Trust, now work closely together to understand the Highbridge school’s context, identify priorities and hold one another to account for impact and value for money. Inspectors described the pace of improvement over the past year as noteworthy.
Inspectors reported that trust leaders have helped to support stable leadership, clear governance and a strong sense of direction. This intervention has brought much‑needed consistency for pupils, families and staff, and has established the foundations for continued improvement.
Safeguarding was confirmed to meet requirements, with inspectors recognising an open and positive culture in which safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. Pupils were found to feel safe in school and to have trusting, supportive relationships with adults.
Behaviour has improved significantly following the introduction of stronger policies and consistent expectations. Inspectors described the school as calm, orderly and respectful, with pupils understanding what is expected of them and applying themselves well in lessons. Bullying, which had been a concern in the past, is now much less frequent and generally dealt with effectively when it does occur.
Ofsted noted that these improvements in behaviour have created classrooms that are increasingly conducive to learning, helping pupils to engage more positively and take greater responsibility for their attitudes and conduct.
Inspectors were clear that attendance and achievement remain areas that require some improvement, particularly for pupils facing additional barriers, including pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities. However, the report recognises that leaders now have an accurate and honest view of these challenges and have put appropriate systems and strategies in place.
A comprehensive attendance strategy is being implemented, informed by detailed analysis, and is beginning to have an impact for some groups of pupils. Leaders acknowledge that this work must continue with urgency to ensure that more pupils attend regularly and benefit fully from the improved school experience.
Curriculum and teaching changes are also under way, with a stronger focus on essential knowledge, assessment and adapting lessons to meet pupils’ needs more consistently. Inspectors noted that these actions are starting to make a difference, particularly in the early years and key stage 1, while being clear that sustained improvement, especially in key stage 2, is still expected.
The inspection highlights that systems to support pupils who face barriers to learning are now strengthening, with leaders identifying needs more quickly and implementing a clear, step‑by‑step approach to support, underpinned by appropriate training and external expertise where needed.
A new personal development programme is in place, providing pupils with opportunities to develop respect, tolerance and understanding, supported by strong pastoral care, enrichment activities, clubs, trips and leadership roles.
Executive Headteacher Jo Thorn said: “The inspection reflects a school that has emerged from a challenging period and is now improving securely as a result of restored leadership stability and stronger governance. We are pleased that inspectors recognised the calmer, more respectful culture and the positive changes in behaviour, which are making a real difference for pupils.
“We are also absolutely clear about what must come next. With the continued support and challenge of the Bath & Wells Academy Trust, our focus is firmly on embedding consistently high‑quality teaching, improving attendance and ensuring that all pupils, particularly those who face additional barriers, achieve as well as they should.”
A spokesperson for Bath & Wells Academy Trust said: “This inspection recognises the decisive action taken to stabilise leadership, strengthen governance and set clear expectations for improvement at Churchfield. Trustees and trust leaders are holding school leaders to account for impact, while providing strong support to ensure that improvements are sustained.
“There is more work to do, and we are clear about the standards we expect. The trust remains fully committed to working alongside leaders, staff and the wider community to ensure that every child at Churchfield receives the education, care and opportunities they deserve.”