Balfour Infant School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 15 October 2024

Pupils are happy to come to this friendly and inclusive school. Their teachers welcome them every morning. The day begins calmly with activities such as yoga. Pupils look forward to social times when there are a wide range of games to play with their friends. Pupils love to challenge themselves on the trim trail, construct models from toy bricks or read quietly in the outdoor library. The school has high expectations and pupils achieve well. They are ready for the next stage in their education. There are many opportunities for pupils to develop their own talents and interests, such as learning to ride a bike and dance workshops. As one parent, sharing the views of many, commented: 'The school is warm and welcoming. Children are challenged and supported in their learning as well as encouraged to become confident in themselves'. The school sets high standards for behaviour. Adults uphold these standards through being strong role models for the school's values. Relationships between adults and pupils are mutually respectful. Pupils concentrate well in lessons and strive proudly to be their best selves. Pupils feel safe, knowing they can always talk to an adult if they need help.

What the school should improve

• In some curriculum areas, the school has not fully identified the most important knowledge and skills that pupils must understand and remember. As a result, assessment is not used effectively to embed knowledge, check understanding or inform teaching. The school should continue its work to further refine the curriculum so that pupils achieve equally well across the whole curriculum.

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