Churchfields, the Village School, is celebrating a highly positive outcome following its recent Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS), published on 13 January 2026.
The report praises the school for living out its Christian foundation and enabling both pupils and adults to flourish across its two sites in Atworth and Monkton Farleigh.
Inspectors noted that the school’s Christian vision, rooted in Ecclesiastes 4:9–12 – ‘Two are better than one’ – is deeply embedded in daily school life.
Pupils clearly understand the importance of working collaboratively, with this vision reflected in relationships, learning and personal development across the school.
The report highlights a strong culture of respect, inclusion and equality, where pupils ‘are nurtured and valued’ and develop a secure sense of identity.
Inspectors also praised the school’s aspirational and spiritually rich curriculum, which is accessible to all pupils, alongside engaging and reflective collective worship that supports spiritual growth for both children and adults.
Head of school Heather Saunders said, “I am incredibly proud of our entire school community. The SIAMS report reflects the warmth, collaboration and commitment that make Churchfields such a special place.
“Our vision of ‘two are better than one’ is lived out every day through the way our children support each other, the dedication of our staff and the strength of our partnerships across both school sites.”
Executive headteacher Simon Futcher added, “This report is a wonderful affirmation of the journey Churchfields has been on over a number of years.
“Our Christian vision, rooted in love, forgiveness, compassion and friendship, is not just words. We see its impact in the confidence and character of our pupils every day.”
The school also paid tribute to Louise Pugh, Religious Education and Collective Worship Leader, whose leadership has helped shape the high-quality RE curriculum and reflective worship highlighted in the report.
Churchfields joined the Palladian Academy Trust in March 2025, benefiting from wider leadership capacity and close collaboration with other trust schools.
Jane Gascoigne, Palladian Academy Trust Church Schools Lead, said, “I am delighted to celebrate this excellent SIAMS outcome with Churchfields.
“The strength of relationships, inclusive practice and shared commitment across both sites shines clearly, making ‘two are better than one’ a lived reality within the community.”
Churchfields continues to thrive as a school where children flourish academically, socially and spiritually, supported by caring relationships and a clear, inclusive Christian vision.
The full inspection report is available to read on the Church of England website.
