Ridgewell Church of England Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 24 February 2026

Pupils experience warm and welcoming relationships. They are greeted positively each morning, which helps them feel they belong. Pupils show the school's value of friendship in the way they support each other. They interact respectfully with adults. Although pupils enjoy school, they do not achieve as well as they should. Some pupils have gaps in important knowledge, particularly in writing and spelling. These weaknesses begin in the early years and continue as pupils move through the school. Staff do not always address these gaps precisely, which limits some pupils' progress. As a result, pupils are not as well prepared for the next stage of their education as they should be. Pupils behave well in lessons and during social times. Classrooms are calm and pupils enjoy playing together in the playground. Many enjoy active games such as basketball, while others choose quieter spaces such as the library. Pupils can explain what bullying is and report that it rarely happens. They are confident that leaders respond swiftly and effectively should it occur. Staff know pupils well. Positive, trusting relationships with staff help pupils to feel safe and secure. Staff know pupils and their families well. They offer tailored guidance and support, including for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities and those who face additional challenges. These relationships help the school work with families to improve attendance. Consequently, attendance is rising and most pupils now attend regularly. Pupils are supported with their wider development effectively. They value opportunities to take on roles and responsibilities. School councillors and eco councillors contribute to decision-making. Library monitors support younger pupils with their reading. Pupils also benefit from enrichment experiences, including residential trips, which help them develop independence and broaden their horizons. They learn about British values, such as democracy and the rule of law. This helps to prepare pupils for life in modern Britain.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should strengthen the support and training for early years staff so they develop secure subject knowledge and expertise to help children learn, apply and practise the key skills that will prepare them well for Year 1.
• Leaders should ensure staff identify and address gaps in pupils' knowledge quickly and effectively, particularly in foundational writing skills, so that pupils achieve consistently well.
• Leaders, including those at the trust, should ensure they act quickly and effectively to implement the necessary changes so they make timely and sustained improvements to teaching and pupils’ achievement.
• Leaders should further develop their work with pupils and families to address barriers to attendance, resulting in notable improvements and high rates of attendance.

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