Monkspath Junior and Infant School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 20 January 2026

Pupils are very happy at this inclusive and welcoming school which parents, carers and staff describe as having a family feel. Pupils benefit from positive relationships with warm and caring staff. There is a calm and purposeful environment in classrooms and around the school. Creating these conditions begins in the early years, where children quickly learn and follow daily routines. Pupils and staff are happy to attend such a special place. By learning together, they know that they can ‘reach for excellence’. Pupils and staff thrive in the school's highly inclusive culture. Staff know pupils and families very well. They recognise the school's importance at the centre of the community. Relationships between staff, pupils and families are very positive. As a result, the school recognises pupils’ strengths while supporting their needs. Pupils thoroughly enjoy coming to school and, as a result, attend very well. Leaders have planned a broad and rich curriculum. The school’s values underpin all learning. Pupils become confident learners who are always keen to talk about what they have learned. Leaders identify any barriers to learning quickly and put in place effective support. This ensures that pupils across the school, including pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, and those who are disadvantaged, can learn well. As a result, pupils are prepared well for their next steps. The school’s ambition for pupils is not limited to the classroom. There is a wide range of activities, experiences and enrichment that pupils take advantage of. They enjoy the wealth of opportunities that leaders have created for them. Pupils play an important part in creating a school where everyone is celebrated and valued. The school provides opportunities for pupils to take on positions of responsibility, for example acting as buddies, school councillors and monitors. The school is determined that these experiences have a lasting impact for pupils when they leave Monkspath.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that teaching and learning in the early years is purposeful, with activities planned to build on children’s existing knowledge and experiences. • Leaders should ensure that staff check learning consistently and effectively, to make sure that pupils' mistakes and misconceptions are identified and addressed as quickly as possible.

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