MP visits Christ Church First School to celebrate remarkable turnaround from ‘Inadequate to Inspiring’
Christ Church First School in Frome recently welcomed Anna Sabine MP, Member of Parliament for Frome and East Somerset, to hear first‑hand about the school’s remarkable improvement journey following a period of significant challenge.
During the visit, the MP met with Joe Beament (Executive Headteacher), Abby Atkins (Bath and Wells Trust, Assistant Director of Education) and Damon Hooton (Co‑Chair of the Local Governing Board). The discussion focused on the school’s transformation from being judged Inadequate in 2022 to meeting the Expected Standard at its most recent Ofsted inspection in 2026.
In 2022, inspectors described Christ Church First School as a school “in desperate straits”, raising serious concerns around safeguarding, behaviour and the support provided for vulnerable pupils. Staff morale was low and confidence across the school community had been understandably shaken.
Since that time, the school has undergone a period of rapid and sustained improvement, driven by strong leadership, clear accountability and a relentless focus on doing what is right for children. In September 2024, a new Executive Headteacher leadership model was introduced, providing stability, clarity and ambition, and enabling the school to move forward at pace.
A defining feature of the school’s improvement journey has been its commitment to inclusion. What was once a significant weakness is now described by inspectors as the “defining feature of daily life” at Christ Church. Pupils are known well as individuals, barriers to learning are quickly identified and addressed, and safeguarding, behaviour, curriculum and pastoral care are underpinned by strong relationships and a shared sense of belonging.
Ofsted praised the calm and purposeful learning environment, the quality of education, and the strong start children receive in the early years. Inspectors also recognised the positive behaviour culture, the school’s inclusive ethos, and the leadership’s clear vision and ambition for every pupil to thrive.
Anna Sabine MP said:
"The school is making amazing progress, and it was a privilege to visit and see this firsthand. It is evident that the team has a genuine passion for the wellbeing of their pupils and is wholly committed to providing them with the best quality of education possible."
Speaking during the visit, Joe Beament (Executive Headteacher) said:
“Christ Church’s journey from inadequate to inspiring has been driven by relentless ambition for children, deep moral purpose, and exceptional teamwork. This transformation belongs to the staff who never gave up, the children who inspire us every day, and the community who placed their trust in the school again. We have built a calm, inclusive and aspirational school where every child is known, valued and supported—and while we are proud of how far we have come, our journey is far from finished. It’s been a privilege to spend the afternoon with Anna and share our story.”
The visit concluded with discussions about the school’s future and its role at the heart of a growing community. With renewed confidence, strong leadership and a clear vision, Christ Church First School is entering its next chapter focused on sustaining excellence, deepening inclusion and ensuring every child has an excellent education!