Statutory Inspection of Anglican Schools: Inspection Report 2006
General Information and Context
Summary Judgement
Strengths and Areas for Development
How well does the school, through its distinctive Christian character, meet the needs of all learners?
What is the impact of collective worship on the school community?
How effective is the Religious Education?
How effective are the leadership and management of the school as a church school?
General Information and Context
School: Greenfylde Church of England First School, Silver Street, IlminsterTA19 0DS
Status: Voluntary Controlled
Local Authority: Somerset County Council
Date of Inspection: 8 May 2006
Date of last Inspection: June 2000
School's unique reference no: 123764
Name of Headteacher: Mr John Jeffery
Chair of Governors: Mr Gordon Twinberrow
Inspector's name & NS no: Miss Susan Barton - 162
School Context
Greenfylde Church of England School is set in the middle of an ancient market town opposite the Minster Church. This large first school with 310 children on roll enjoy their surroundings in well maintained and modernised Victorian buildings. It provides a pleasant, secure and welcoming environment in which the learners of a wide social mix and predominantly White British are happy to be educated. Back to top
Summary Judgement
Summary JudgementGreenfylde School is a good church school which provides a distinctively Christian atmosphere in which to educate all its learners. Children's care and education are a priority which is achieved by effectively placing Christian values at the heart of all that the school does. Back to top
Strengths and Areas for Development
Established Strengths* The inspiration of the headteacher as a spiritual leader in the school community.
* The headteacher and foundation governors' clear and distinctive vision for the development of a church school.
* The strong links and involvement with the Minster Church.
* The Christian ethos, which is exemplified by adults in the school, where love and support for others is demonstrated
Focus for development
* Formalise the recording, checking and evaluation of worship to ensure that the planned programme of themes meets the needs of all learners.
* Provide training, with the support of the Diocese, for all who are involved in leading worship.
* Enhance experiences of aspects of Anglican faith and practice for learners.
* Formalise the checking of standards in all aspects of religious education. Back to top
How well does the school, through its distinctive Christian character, meet the needs of all learners?
The distinctive Christian character of the school is good.The emphasis placed on Christian values is greatly appreciated and enhances the family feel to the school. Learners have explored what is meant by Christian values and displayed examples on a 'fruits of the spirit' tree. Throughout the school displays of religious content, such as symbols, banners, objects and special corners have a visual and powerful impact on learners' spiritual development. Relationships are outstanding between all within school placing the Bible into action through care and love for all. Learners and adults feel that they are respected, valued and listened to which helps to ensure that they give of their best in all they do. The staff team is strong and cohesive working together to enrich the learners' many experiences and enjoyment of life. Collective Worship and religious education are good contributors to the learners' spiritual and moral understanding enabling them the opportunities to identify with issues in which they may find themselves. The singing club enjoy practising worship songs which enhance their spiritual understanding. Well developed links with the Minster Church and Methodist Church add to the distinctive Christian character of the school. Back to top
What is the impact of collective worship on the school community?
Collective worship makes a good impact on the school community.Worship is a distinctive time and central to the life of the school. The special table which is set as an altar and is permanently in situ displays a specially made spring cloth, candle, flowers and open Bible heightens the learners spiritual awareness. The Rector leads worship regularly and involves all children well. They enjoyed the visual presentation of David and Goliath, through drama, and the younger children recalled the story well. A foundation governor leads class worship regularly which is of significant value to learners spiritual growth. Prayers written for an occasion display an understanding of the purpose of prayer. Worship has a positive impact on learners and adults lives through a well planned programme of spiritual examples of belief. Learners' work and personal achievements are celebrated reinforcing love for each other. There are few opportunities for learners to appreciate the Anglican aspects of Christian faith and practice in school. Back to top
How effective is the Religious Education?
Religious education (RE) is effective in developing the learners' understanding of Christianity and others' faiths.RE is a good contributor to both the spiritual and moral development of children through time provided for learners' questions and ideas to be explored. Learners display a good attitude to their learning being confident and open in religious discussion. Opportunities are provided for feelings and experiences to be shared as well as studies of some of the major world faiths which teach respect and tolerance. A strong role model is provided through adults freely sharing their personal Christian commitment. The newly appointed coordinator supports staff very well in leading the development of religious education forward Back to top
How effective are the leadership and management of the school as a church school?
The leadership and management of the school as a church school is outstanding.The headteacher and foundation governors work continuously to promote a distinctive Christian vision for the school. The headteacher's Christian role model along with his excellent leadership is greatly valued by the whole school community and ensures a very good Christian education is provided for all children. The strong staff team helps to implement the distinctive and shared vision for the school through feelings of trust and value. Good progress has been made since the last denominational report with much work being achieved by the newly appointed coordinator to heighten the value and importance of religious education and collective worship. The links with the Minster Church and Methodist Church are good through the strong support by the clergy who teach the Gospel in worship, which aids the children?s spiritual growth and understanding. Learners are invited to special Sunday services, for example the Civic and Shoebox Services, in which the singing club participate and experience some of the Anglican traditions. The enthusiasm and strong support of the foundation governors is much appreciated and ensures the church community is well informed of the school's Christian development. Links with the 'Prayers and Bears' church group for under-5's well established. The headteacher makes regular visits which enable strong and lasting relationships to be formed with parents. This exemplifies the head?s personal commitment and his ability to give time to very many individuals each day Back to top