Crofton Anne Dale Infant and Pre-School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 21 April 2026

Pupils take great pride in their school. They feel safe, included and valued. Staff know pupils well as individuals and nurture them carefully. This creates a calm, ambitious and supportive environment where every child can thrive. From the early years onwards, pupils experience high-quality care and consistency. The school’s motto of being ready, respectful and safe is evident throughout daily life at the school. Pupils enjoy learning, form secure friendships and build very positive relationships with committed staff. They attend school regularly and treat one another with courtesy and respect. Pupils behave extremely well throughout the day. They listen attentively, move sensibly around the school and follow routines confidently. Lunchtimes and playtimes are harmonious and purposeful. Older pupils from the neighbouring junior school support activities and model fair play and cooperation, helping younger pupils learn how to enjoy social times positively. Pupils understand what bullying is and find that it is not a problem at this school. They know who to go to for help and trust adults to act quickly to keep them safe. Visitors are welcomed warmly, and pupils speak enthusiastically about their learning and school life. Pupils enjoy their learning and are proud of what they achieve. They engage with a wide range of activities that develop their knowledge, curiosity and confidence. Pupils particularly enjoy mathematics, where learning is clear and meaningful to them. They can recognise their progress and can apply their skills in different mathematical contexts. Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities are fully included across school life. They receive carefully tailored support to access learning alongside their peers. Overall, pupils achieve well. Leaders ensure that pupils develop secure foundations in their communication skills and their knowledge of reading, writing and mathematics.

What the school should improve

• Governors should develop their knowledge and skills to enable them to hold leaders to account more effectively for the quality of education pupils receive.
• Leaders should ensure that all staff embed the changes made to the school’s curriculum and teaching, so that pupils’ knowledge builds over time and they make even more progress from their starting points.

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