Rectory CofE Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 9 June 2026

Pupils do well in this small and welcoming school community. Everyone feels included and part of the Rectory Church of England school. Pupils enjoy being involved in school life and take part in the many opportunities on offer. For example, every pupil can join external sporting competitions to represent their school. On the whole, pupils are typically prepared well for the next stage of their education. Leaders and staff help pupils to overcome any difficulties that might affect their learning. They support pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities particularly well, including pupils in the school's specialist provision. These pupils often make rapid gains from their starting points. For some other pupils, there is more to do in order for them to achieve their true potential. Pupils benefit from a range of wider opportunities that enrich their time in school. They take part in events such as residential visits which helps them to build confidence and independence. Pupils also enjoy contributing to the life of the church. For example, they take part in celebrations such as 'Faith and Feast'. This allows pupils to support the church community and reflect on shared values. These experiences help pupils to give back to their wider community around the school. Pupils enjoy their learning. They want to do their best for their teachers. Pupils behave well in lessons and around the school. They understand the school's expectations and respond positively to staff guidance. When in lessons, they usually listen well, stay focused and work hard. They take pride in what they achieve. Staff build secure, caring relationships with pupils. They know pupils well and recognise when they need extra help. Staff provide the right support at the right time. Pupils show respect for one another and staff. They play well together and include others in their activities. Overall, this creates a calm and purposeful atmosphere for learning. Pupils feel safe and secure in school. They have someone who they turn to when they need some support. Pupils who find communication more tricky can show that they feel safe. Leaders deal with bullying quickly and effectively if it happens. Pupils attendance continues to improve at pace. As a result, more pupils are attending school regularly.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that teachers use checks on pupils' learning more consistently to identify any gaps which pupils have in their knowledge. They should support teachers to use these checks effectively so that they can successfully address gaps in pupils' knowledge.
• Leaders should ensure that they embed highly effective teaching across the school so that all groups of pupils gain the knowledge they should across the curriculum.
• Leaders should strengthen the teaching of pupils foundational writing and mathematics knowledge so that pupils build on what they already know and achieve well.

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