East Crompton St James CofE Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 20 January 2026

Pupils arrive at school each day excited to learn. They are very proud to be part of the school. This is reflected in their high rates of attendance. Pupils are keen to take on leadership roles such as prefects to support the calm, purposeful atmosphere in school. They are highly motivated to uphold the school's values of trust, service, perseverance, justice and compassion. The school cultivates a strong sense of community with ambitious expectations for every child. It provides highly effective guidance and support for all pupils. Throughout the school, leaders and staff are committed to recognising each pupil as an individual. This helps them to effectively remove any potential barriers to pupils' learning and ensures that their needs are met. As a result, pupils, including disadvantaged pupils, are well prepared for the next stage in their education and life beyond the school. The school is built on warm, caring relationships. Staff know the children well and provide excellent pastoral support. This helps pupils feel valued and part of the school community. Older pupils are thoughtful role models and look after younger children with kindness. From the moment children join in the early years, they experience this nurturing ethos. It helps them to settle quickly and make a really positive start. Throughout the school, pupils feel safe and happy. Pupils are incredibly respectful to their peers, staff and visitors. They follow the school rules diligently. As a result, incidents of bullying are very rare. If any issues, such as bullying, arise, pupils trust that staff will deal with them promptly and effectively. Pupils appreciate the many activities the school offers to develop their interests. When pupils asked for more opportunities to support their mental health, leaders put these in place. Pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities, enjoy taking part in the wide range of sporting competitions.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that staff have the expertise to teach handwriting effectively and consistently so that pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities, develop the accuracy and fluency they need to write well. • Leaders should ensure that teachers use their checks on pupils' learning in different subjects to ensure that pupils secure key knowledge before moving on to new learning.

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