Bursted Wood Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 16 June 2026

Pupils thrive at this school. They arrive each day with energy and purpose. Pupils enjoy learning and engage fully in lessons. They describe the school as inclusive and respectful. Pupils feel a real sense of belonging. This includes those with special educational needs and/or disabilities and those who are disadvantaged. Adults act quickly when pupils raise concerns, making pupils feel safe and trusted. Bullying is rare, and, if it does occur, pupils are confident that any issues are resolved promptly. Their enjoyment of school leads to their high attendance and punctuality. Pupils benefit from studying an ambitious and broad curriculum. They speak clearly and confidently about what they have learned. Pupils are able to connect what they have learned previously to new knowledge and skills. As a result, their achievement in national examinations has been consistently higher than the national averages for several years. Pupils experience a very wide range of enrichment activities. These include visits to a modern art gallery, First World War trench reconstructions, theatre workshops, virtual reality simulations and residential visits. Children in the early years visit a farm and zoo, which links to their learning about animals and habitats. These opportunities broaden pupils' perspectives and deepen their curiosity. Pupils can take on meaningful leadership roles, such as joining the school council or being 'eco warriors', 'care and community leaders', and 'enrichment experts'. Leaders consider pupils' opinions carefully, such as their contribution to recent discussions on playground enhancements. Pupils also participate in charitable projects such as visiting care homes and donating books to disadvantaged schools abroad. They are taught how to look after the environment. Pupils behave very well. They show genuine respect for different cultures and perspectives, listening carefully and responding maturely. Daily routines are well embedded, which includes an ambitious reading programme. Book monitors and reading champions promote reading throughout the school. Older pupils support younger ones during playtimes and events. Pupils understand how to stay safe online and offline. The 'friendship room’ provides a calm space to strengthen relationships and pupil wellbeing.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should continue to enhance their support for children and pupils who need additional support with their fine motor skills and early writing to promote greater independence and more accurate letter formation in their handwriting.

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