Naphill and Walters Ash School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 10 May 2023

Pupils are safe and well cared for in this inclusive school. As one pupil put it, 'This is a school where it's easy to fit in.' Many pupils come from military backgrounds and must cope with change when moving schools or when loved ones are posted further afield. They, and their civilian friends, are taught strategies for coping with disappointment and loss, becoming emotionally intelligent and resilient. Pupils here know how to look after themselves and be good friends to others. Leaders have high expectations and, as a result, pupils make good progress in their learning across all curriculum areas during their time here. New joiners are supported well and catch up quickly. Behaviour rules set clear boundaries, ultimately teaching pupils to take responsibility for their own behaviour. They are explained to newcomers by well-trained staff and new pupils soon rise to leaders' expectations. The '5Rs' underpin leaders' aspirations for pupils' behaviour and learning. Staff nurture them to become responsible, resourceful, reflective, resilient and learn to reason. These attributes teach pupils to respectfully challenge the status quo, developing a strong sense of justice and the confidence to think for themselves. Parents comment that this is a school 'focused on developing kind, responsible children in life'.

What the school should improve

• The curriculum thinking in some foundation subjects and areas of learning in the early years is not precise enough. Teachers do not know exactly what pupils must understand and remember in readiness for the next year group or key stage. Leaders should continue their work to clarify the key knowledge that must be taught from early years to Year 6.

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