Great Bookham School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 25 February 2025

Pupils love to attend this exceptionally friendly, welcoming and happy school. The 'CLUB' values of curiosity, love, unity and belief are very clearly demonstrated throughout the school. Many pupils talked about how the school is like a family. Relationships between adults and children are incredibly warm and caring. Older pupils take on the role of 'special friend buddies' for the children who join in Reception. The school has high expectations of pupils, including those with special educational needs and/ or disabilities (SEND). From the early years, children develop strong learning behaviours, such as listening attentively and working collaboratively. Pupils achieve extremely well in national assessments in English and mathematics. Pupils feel that their voice is heard in school and that they can make a genuine and positive difference to their community. The school council recently purchased new playground equipment. Pupils also become sports crew members, well-being ambassadors, prefects or house captains. They appreciate these roles, which encourage them to become engaged and active citizens in their school. Many staff and pupils commented on the significant improvements in the school in recent years. Parents were glowing in their praise of the school. All stakeholders are rightly proud to be part of this wonderful school community.

What the school should improve

• The school does not always ensure that pupils are provided with opportunities to recall and apply key knowledge. As a result, pupils are sometimes unable to retain this as well as they should and apply it to future learning. The school should ensure that there is sufficient focus on the things that pupils need to remember and recall so that pupils can build their knowledge more effectively over time.

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