Chalkwell Hall Junior School praised in Ofsted report

Chalkwell Hall Junior School, in London Road, Leigh-On-Sea, was visited by inspectors on March 21 and March 22 who rated the school as “good” – the second-highest possible rating.

Inspectors found pupils at the school were “very happy, kind and friendly” while teachers were praised for teaching them respect and holding the children to a high standard.

The report, published this week, saw the school – which has almost 500 pupils – rated as “good” in all inspection areas.

Headteacher Andy Newnham said: “The report is testament to all the wonderful children and staff here at the school.

“A lot of hard work’s gone into it, we want to keep getting better as well.

“We’re very happy with our inspection as well.”

He added: “They focused a lot on our curriculum – how and why we deliver the curriculum. Personal development as well, that’s a big strength of our school. It came across really well.”

“They could see the development that we’ve taken since our last Ofsted, definitely. They could see there’s a lot of work going on that’s enriched what we’re doing see.

“I’m really proud of the team we have here – including the governors. We have a talented, hardworking team here and I’d pay testament to them. We’re really happy with what was said in our report.”

“On the two days of our inspection, we didn’t do anything differently. Our daily practice shone through, we didn’t deviate from that. It was affirmation that what we’re doing for our children was the most important thing as well, that’s the most important thing at the end of day. We want to keep getting better and better – getting ready for the next four year cycle and making progress from this inspection.”

While Ofsted’s report outlined the school’s broad curriculum, it also acknowledged that leaders’ planning required more concise guidance for teachers.

The report added: “Pupils appreciate that adults want them to give their views about the things they want to improve.”