Elm CofE Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 19 May 2026

Pupils are immensely proud to be part of their school community. They feel safe, valued and well supported. Pupils experience a strong sense of belonging and trust in adults across the school. They know that if they need help or are struggling with an aspect of learning or wellbeing there is always an adult who will respond and provide guidance. Pupils consistently meet staff's high expectations for attendance and behaviour. They attend well. Pupils benefit from consistent routines that lead to calm and purposeful classrooms. This helps them focus, concentrate and learn effectively. Pupils approach learning with confidence. As they progress through the school, they develop high expectations of themselves. Pupils are able to consider and suggest how they can improve further and take increasing ownership of their learning. They apply themselves fully and learn from mistakes without fear. Pupils experience a coherent and well-planned curriculum that helps them make sense of their learning. Pupils study a curriculum adapted to their needs. It is relevant and meaningful to pupils. The curriculum is ambitious and encourages pupils to achieve well. Teachers meticulously check that pupils have grasped new learning, so pupils know what they understand and what they need to practice. Pupils who need to secure or consolidate their understanding receive help swiftly. This prevents them from falling behind. Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities are fully included in all aspects of school life. They receive appropriate support that enables them to learn alongside their peers and experience success. Pupils understand and value the school’s ethos. They know the school values and can explain how they connect with fundamental British values. They understand that mutual respect and tolerance matter in school and beyond. Pupils understand what it means to belong to a team and contribute to the wider school community. They support one another and work together positively.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should continue to embed the curriculum and teaching approaches to ensure that pupils' achievements are reflected in above average outcomes over time.
• Leaders should increase opportunities beyond the classroom to enable pupils to further develop their talents and interests.
• Leaders should continue to provide support and training so that staff, particularly those in early years, employ consistently high-quality interactions to support language and communication.

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