Rivermead Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 10 March 2026

Pupils are proud to belong to Rivermead Primary School. They talk confidently about being part of a welcoming community, where ‘everybody is respected'. Pupils know and understand difference and celebrate this in a school where everyone is welcome. They value the trusting relationships they have with staff and each other. Pupils feel happy and safe. This is because leaders ensure that there is a rich provision of nurture and care that allows pupils to thrive. Parents are effusive about the school and the work it does to nurture and support the pupils. Pupils want to attend because staff make learning memorable and enjoyable. They benefit from learning that is purposeful and interesting. In lessons, pupils take pride in sharing their work and achievements. Pupils demonstrate a commitment to learning and eagerness to succeed. Leaders take swift, effective action to reduce barriers so that pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities and pupils who are disadvantaged access the same curriculum as their peers. Most pupils progress well through the curriculum, achieve well and are well prepared for their next steps. Pupils learn how to keep themselves safe, including online. Bullying is extremely rare, but if it occurs leaders take swift action so that incidents are not repeated. Pupils know that trusted adults will help them with any worries or concerns. Pupils behave well. They show maturity and integrity through all they do. Older pupils look after the younger pupils well and support them at social times playing games and sport. Relationships across the school are respectful and caring. A wide range of clubs, such as LEGO, young enterprise, eco ambassadors, sports and the creative arts are available. These help pupils to further develop their talents and interests, while educational trips and visits help bring learning to life.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should continue to further embed consistent handwriting expectations so that pupils develop fluent, legible writing and produce work that reflects leaders' high standards.
• Leaders should ensure that learning is designed to deepen pupils’ recall of key knowledge across some foundation subjects, enabling them to remember more and make stronger connections within the curriculum over time.

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