Ashwell Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 9 June 2026

Pupils are proud that they attend this village school. They demonstrate curiosity, enthusiasm and pride. Pupils learn successfully and with enjoyment. They are well prepared for their next stage of education. Pupils have consistently high outcomes in almost all national assessments. They benefit from learning a broad and well-resourced curriculum. The curriculum supports pupils' learning beyond the classroom. For example, pupils develop their knowledge of local history and geography through field trips. Pupils have opportunities to develop and celebrate their talents and interests. These include the school choir, competitive sports events and instrument lessons. The school’s termly ‘open mic’ showcases are valued by pupils because they get to perform to their peers and to staff. Pupils develop their confidence, resilience and ability to take risks in a range of ways. These include children in Nursery and Reception taking part in 'Welly Wednesdays' and 'Forest Fridays'. Older pupils attend residential trips suitable for their age. Pupils have a secure understanding of how to keep themselves safe, both in school and in the wider community. They speak confidently about online safety. They know how to recognise risks and report concerns. Bullying is rare. Pupils are confident that when behaviour issues do arise, staff will deal with them quickly and effectively. Pupils learn to understand and appreciate the views of others. They learn and develop an understanding of fundamental British values and learn to debate ideas maturely. For example, older pupils were able to lead their own discussion about whether the voting age should be lowered to 16 years of age. Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, disadvantaged pupils and those with barriers to wellbeing and/or learning are fully included in the life of the school. Staff know pupils’ needs well and use targeted approaches that help them learn effectively.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should further support staff to raise their expectations of pupils’ writing so that more pupils consistently produce writing that reflects what they are capable of.
• Leaders should continue to develop their strategy to ensure pupils consistently produce high-quality work across the curriculum.

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