Coombe Bissett Church of England Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 13 January 2026

The school’s vision for pupils to ‘soar on wings like eagles’ shines through in many aspects of school life. Pupils aim high, show positive attitudes and try their best. They uphold the core values, such as care and commitment. For example, they know the importance of not giving up when learning is hard. As a result, the school day runs smoothly, and bullying is rare. The success of this small school hinges on the caring relationship between staff and pupils. Warm greetings from staff at the start of each day reinforce pupils’ sense of belonging and safety. It also contributes to the calm atmosphere around the school. Staff get to know pupils well, which means they spot quickly if anyone needs extra help, including pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities. Pupils know who to turn to if they have any concerns. They can attend ‘talk time’, use a worry box or spend time with Peanut, the wellbeing dog. These opportunities help to reduce pupils’ barriers to learning and make them feel valued and understood for who they are. The school has achieved a great deal since the previous inspection. Much of this is due to the improved curriculum and higher expectations for pupils’ academic learning. Pupils ask thoughtful and probing questions about their learning. They develop a keen sense of enquiry. This is especially notable in the early years, where children thrive as curious and inquisitive learners. Leaders thread aspects of the personal development offer beyond the classroom. Pupils take pride in leadership roles, such as leading assemblies about their cultures. They learn to be active and responsible citizens through fundraising for animal charities and by applying their learning in real-life situations, such as visiting the village shop. The school prepares pupils well for the next stage of their education.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that highly effective teaching in the wider curriculum consistently supports pupils to achieve the intended learning so that they deepen their knowledge and produce high-quality work. • Leaders should continue refining the provision for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities so that individual targets are precise and consistently well matched to pupils' needs.

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