Furzeham Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 6 January 2026

Pupils thrive in this small, inclusive school, where close, caring and nurturing relationships with staff and peers are highly valued. They relish learning and benefit from the wide range of enrichment opportunities the school provides. Parents greatly appreciate the support and communication they receive, recognising the school’s commitment to both academic progress and personal wellbeing. This partnership between pupils, staff and families ensures that pupils feel safe and motivated to achieve their very best. Pupils attend well. One parent commented, ‘We feel incredibly privileged to be part of this school community,’ a view that echoes the sentiments of many others. Pupils embrace the school’s motto, ‘inspired to learn, inspired for life'. They are curious about the subjects they study and work hard to achieve. Through a well-structured and carefully sequenced curriculum, pupils build their knowledge securely over time. Reading is taught very effectively, enabling pupils to access the wider curriculum successfully. They achieve well and are prepared for the next stage of their education. However, some pupils, including disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs and/or disabilities, do not learn to write as effectively as they could. This limits their ability to demonstrate fully what they know and can do. Pupils thoroughly enjoy playing on the equipment in the school playground and value the friendships they forge. Bullying is rare and dealt with swiftly. Pupils are enthused by the many trips the school provides. For example, they regularly go swimming in the local pool and learn about the history of Brixham, which strengthens their sense of belonging. A wide range of clubs, such as board games and football, broadens pupils’ interests. Leadership skills are nurtured through roles such as school councillor and digital leaders. Pupils also engage in a breadth of cultural events, such as singing in choirs.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure the teaching of writing builds securely on what pupils already know and make effective adaptations to teaching, so that pupils write accurately and fluently in all subjects.

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