Ashford, St Mary's Church of England Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 23 April 2025

Pupils thrive at this wonderfully warm and welcoming school. They embody the school vision to 'shine as lights in the world'. From the early years, children learn how to act according to the school's values, including respect, forgiveness and compassion. The school builds warm and supportive relationships with pupils and their families. Pupils know that there is someone they can talk to if they are worried about anything. As a result, they feel happy and safe at school. One parent reflected the views of many when they described the school environment as 'enriching and joyful'. The school has high expectations for pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Children in the early years settle quickly, because of the care and support that they receive. The school develops pupils' knowledge and confidence through a broad and ambitious curriculum. Most pupils achieve well in their learning. This is reflected in published outcomes. The school is aware of the need to further deepen and check pupils' understanding of what they learn. Pupils are well prepared for life in modern Britain and develop a strong understanding of fundamental British values. They celebrate the diversity of the school in 'culture week'. The school also runs 'careers week', where pupils learn about future career pathways. The school provides pupils with many opportunities to take on positions of leadership or responsibility. Pupils can join the school's post office team or become sports captains, reading ambassadors or buddies for younger children. Pupils appreciate the new outdoor play activities at lunchtime.

What the school should improve

• The school does not ensure that pupils are provided with opportunities to recall and apply key knowledge consistently. As a result, pupils are sometimes unable to retain knowledge as well as they should and apply it to future learning. The school should ensure that pupils are supported to remember and recall their learning consistently, so that they can build their knowledge more effectively over time.
• On occasion, the school does not check pupils' understanding carefully enough. As a result, some pupils have gaps in their learning and are not fully ready to learn new content. The school should ensure that staff check pupils' learning systematically and respond to any gaps or misconceptions swiftly, so that pupils achieve equally well in all subjects.

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