Ainderby Steeple Church of England Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 13 January 2026

Pupils enjoy attending this small, welcoming school. Staff know pupils very well. Relationships between pupils and staff are kind and supportive. This helps pupils feel safe. There are many occasions when pupils work alongside each other to enhance the school community. These include tending to an allotment, handing out equipment at playtimes, and caring for the school chickens. Staff ensure that all pupils get access to enriching activities, especially those who need extra support and encouragement to do so. Pupils talk enthusiastically about these opportunities. Leaders consistently look for new ways to enhance pupils' educational experiences. Pupils behave well around school. They hold doors open for others and give a warm welcome to visitors. The school's vision, 'Do everything in love', is well understood. Pupils are kind and caring. They are respectful of each other and bullying is very rare. If pupils fall out, staff quickly help them make up and move on. Occasionally, pupils forget the high expectations for their behaviour and need help to refocus on learning. Children in the early years learn strong routines from the very start of their time at school. Pupils become increasingly independent with adult support. Staff ensure pupils are ready for the next stage of their education and for life after school. Pupils show enthusiasm for their learning. They ask meaningful questions and are keen to do their best. Pupils increasingly develop a secure understanding of what they have been taught. Achievement at the school has improved significantly more recently. In most cases, pupils receive the resources and guidance they need to succeed in lessons. Some pupils who previously struggled to engage in education are now thriving thanks to the support they receive.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that staff consistently adapt the curriculum and teaching methods so that they meet pupils' needs and build effectively on what pupils already know and can do. • Leaders should ensure that improvements in teaching enable pupils to develop deep, secure knowledge across all subjects within the curriculum, leading to consistently high standards of achievement in all subjects.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)