Banwell Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 3 March 2026

In lessons, pupils enjoy reading and engage positively with tasks. In some subjects, pupils struggle to complete their work and secure new knowledge when the learning is not closely matched to their level of understanding. Leaders and staff are starting to close gaps in pupils' reading, writing and mathematical knowledge. However, it is too soon to see the impact on pupils' academic achievement. Pupils are starting to benefit from emerging inclusive practice. Adaptations such as sensory circuits and tailored support help pupils manage their emotions and settle into learning. Staff's growing expertise in identifying pupils’ needs means barriers are spotted earlier. Support to help pupils overcome these barriers is becoming more sharply aligned to the need. This contributes to increasingly equitable experiences, especially for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) and disadvantaged pupils. Pupils experience a caring environment where they feel safe, listened to and well supported. They know whom to speak to if they have concerns. They say that bullying rarely happens. When it does, staff are quick to resolve any issues. Positive working relationships with staff contribute to pupils' calm conduct around the school. During lessons and playtimes, pupils demonstrate courtesy and respect for one another. The school offers pupils a range of enrichment opportunities. For example, leadership roles and wider personal development experiences, such as trips, clubs and the playground leaders and SEND council, are valued by pupils. These help them develop confidence, independence, teamwork and a strong sense of fairness. Pupils understand fundamental British values well. As a result of leaders' improvement work, pupils are increasingly well prepared for the next stage of their education.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that teachers have the knowledge to use assessment information to make appropriate adaptations to their teaching to meet pupils' needs.
• Leaders should ensure that pupils consistently benefit from high-quality teaching that aligns learning activities and objectives, to secure their foundational knowledge and achieve well across the curriculum.

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