One parents aptly describes Churchfields Infants’ school as “magic” – this is reflected in a vibrant and inclusive educational community that empowers every pupil to dream big and reach for their goals. The needs of pupils are front and centre of life at Churchfields, with inclusive practices coming naturally to staff. The school was recently graded as Outstanding in all areas by Ofsted, an achievement that further reflects the commitment of the school community to provide exceptional learning for the pupils in its care. 
Staff receive fantastic support at the school. The Ofsted report noted that “Staff feel well supported and described how they love working at the school. This nurturing environment means that pupils receive an excellent educational experience at this school,” and this sentiment is certainly shared by the staff themselves. Staff are encouraged to become active members of the school community. For example, all staff who eat with the pupils are given free lunch, encouraging an inclusive environment for all and instilling a strong sense of community in communal spaces and experiences. Governors speak proudly of the online training on offer to all governors so they can gain a greater understanding of the role. They can arrange termly visits to the school so they can speak to staff and pupils about what they have observed, and in turn can discuss what new initiatives are in place. Subject-specific Governors are able to meet with subject leads in the school to discuss curriculum, and how teaching incorporates the school’s inclusive ethos. The Learning mentor is trained in ELSA, as well as talk and draw therapy, and has a well-resourced therapy area. The school has organised for her to have supervision from the Education Psychologist, further highlighting the school’s commitment to providing inclusive provision for all. When our assessor visited the school, she was working in the areas of bereavement, adoption, parent separation, and trauma. She shows an open-minded approach to her work, and acknowledges that every child is different and unique. She also works closely with parents to ensure they can also avail of support when they need it most, as well as providing signposting for external agencies.
Indeed, parents speak highly of the offering at Churchfields Infants’ School. A parent of a child with additional needs spoke openly to our assessor about the excellent support she has received from all school staff, particularly the SENCo. Communication with parents is clear and effective, with parents feeling up to date with their child’s learning, and that their opinions are listened to and respected. They value the safeguarding tips that are mentioned in every newsletter sent home. Parents speak highly of the Headteacher, seeing them at the gate every day, as someone who is very approachable and accessible when needed. They also appreciate the distraction-free environment provided by the school for their children. All displays around whiteboards or screens have been removed so children can focus on the important pieces of information. They also value the large open plan Hive area that is used for interventions in the morning time, and then for creating activities in the afternoon. There is also The Acorn Room, an additional space for handwriting support in the morning and then nurture therapy intervention work in the afternoon, including all students in resource access.
An extensive range of activities are on offer to include all pupils as part of school life. The Big Festive Read and Jolly Jumpers Day are examples of seasonal engagement activities, with trips to the Cenotaph in London inspiring creative writing activities. They have also made a display of memorabilia from the past, as well as photos from the Victorian themed day that they held, with everyone in costume being taught in a replica Victorian classroom. There is a wide range of extra-curricular activities on offer at the school, and pupils enjoy speaking to visitors about these. Pupils with additional needs are given support to ensure they can also enjoy activities alongside their peers, with excellent behaviour and a culture of respect underpinning these sessions. The school recently celebrated its 150-year anniversary with great success; staff and pupils alike praised the wide range of memorable and enjoyable events on offer, encouraging strong links with the local community.
Every pupil is valued and encouraged at Churchfields Infants’ School. Parents are made to feel like valued and important members of the school community, with staff there to support the needs of parents and pupils alike. The school has created a fantastic offering beyond academics, with pupils able to pursue their interests through different engaging experiences. Every child is included in the school’s “magic”, no child is ever left behind.
