Pineham Barns Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 10 February 2026

Pupils achieve well and enjoy their learning. They confidently explain what they know in English, mathematics and science. Pupils speak proudly and with real interest about their work. The school’s well-planned and carefully sequenced curriculum helps pupils build knowledge step by step. High-quality phonics teaching ensures pupils learn to read fluently at an early stage. This gives them a secure foundation for future learning. Disadvantaged pupils achieve as well as their peers and often better than pupils nationally by the end of key stage 2. This reflects the school’s high ambition for every child. Staff identify pupils’ needs early and provide the right support to help them succeed. This begins with excellent early years transition, including for the most vulnerable. As a result, pupils make secure and steady progress from their starting points. This includes pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities and those who are known, or previously known, to social care. Pupils develop a deep sense of belonging. They are fully included in school life. Relationships are warm, positive and respectful. Pupils work well together, support each other and take pride in contributing to their community. Leadership roles, such as planet protectors, reading ambassadors and wellbeing leaders, give them meaningful responsibilities. They help pupils to grow in confidence. The school’s personal development programme widens pupils’ experiences and raises their aspirations. Pupils learn about equality, the fundamental British values and a range of faiths and cultures. They are excited to visit places of worship, including a Buddhist temple. Clubs and enrichment opportunities are targeted so that disadvantaged pupils access and benefit fully from a wide range of activities. Pupils thrive in a calm, purposeful environment. Behaviour is consistently positive because expectations are clear. Pupils feel safe. They say concerns, including any rare cases of bullying, are dealt with quickly and effectively.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should continue to refine the school’s approach to monitoring, ensuring that pupils have regular, accurate opportunities to practise and apply knowledge and skills across the curriculum so that pupils consistently achieve the ambitious aims of the curriculum.
• Leaders should ensure that they continue to refine their approach to personal development to ensure that all pupils benefit from opportunities to enhance their social development and wellbeing.

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