Three SIAMS Inspections in Two Months: Canonium Schools Flourish Together

Between December 2025 and January 2026, three Canonium academies welcomed inspectors for their Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS). We are delighted that all three schools were recognised as living up to their foundation as Church schools and enabling pupils and adults to flourish.

In just eight weeks, inspections took place at:

Ardleigh St Mary’s Primary Academy – 4 December 2025

St Peter’s Church of England Primary Academy, West Hanningfield – 5 December 2025

Stisted Church of England Primary Academy – 27 January 2026

Living Out Vision with Integrity

Across all three inspections, a consistent theme emerged: Christian vision is not a statement on a wall, but a lived reality shaping daily decisions, relationships and curriculum design.

At Ardleigh St Mary’s, inspectors recognised that the vision provides “a strong and unifying foundation for school life”, consistently modelled and understood by pupils and adults. During a period of leadership transition, the report highlights the significant role of Canonium Learning Trust in strengthening and sustaining that vision through close support and effective challenge.

At St Peter’s, the Christian vision of “Enabling Every Child to Flourish” was described as being “wholeheartedly embraced” and underpinning strategic decision-making by leaders and governors. Inspectors noted that since joining Canonium, the shared vision between school and Trust has enhanced the flourishing of pupils and adults.

At Stisted, the school’s Christian vision was praised for driving leaders’ decisions and empowering clear strategic planning that reflects the needs of the school as a Church community. The report affirms that the Trust strengthens the school’s capacity for leadership and improvement.

Strong Partnerships, Shared Strength

All three reports explicitly recognise the positive impact of being part of Canonium Learning Trust.

Inspectors highlighted:

Strong and effective Trust support enhancing leadership capacity

Valuable professional development and partnership strengthening Christian character

Close Trust support and challenge providing stability and clarity during transition

This reflects our commitment to responsible stewardship, robust governance and professional rigour - ensuring that small schools are strengthened, never overshadowed.

Flourishing Pupils, Inclusive Communities

Each inspection celebrated the nurturing culture and inclusive ethos of our schools.

At Stisted, relationships rooted in love and kindness create a deep sense of belonging - described as a “masterpiece” where uniqueness is embraced.

At St Peter’s, leaders were commended for creating an inclusive and highly nurturing environment where pupils, including those with SEND, are exceptionally well supported.

At Ardleigh St Mary’s, inspectors recognised a calm, respectful culture where pupils and adults are treated with dignity and care.

Collective worship across all three schools was recognised as central to spiritual development, providing invitational, reflective and uplifting experiences rooted in Anglican tradition and strong local church partnerships.

Looking Ahead with Purpose

Each report includes thoughtful development points - particularly around deepening spirituality across the curriculum and further strengthening religious education sequencing and diversity of worldviews.

We welcome this clear direction. As a Trust, we see inspection as part of our ongoing journey of reflection and improvement. Through collaboration, shared expertise and professional dialogue, we will continue to build on these strengths so that every school community flourishes.

A Moment of Gratitude

We are deeply grateful to our pupils, staff, governors, clergy and families. SIAMS inspections recognise the daily faithfulness of school communities who live out compassion, challenge and integrity in practical ways.

Three inspections in two months is a significant undertaking. More importantly, it affirms what we see every day across Canonium: small schools with big hearts, working together as one body, many members - flourishing together.