Selling Church of England Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 6 January 2026

This small rural school places pupils at the centre of all decisions. Inclusion is evident in classrooms and during playtimes. Pupils enjoy learning in a culture of support and compassion. They feel safe to share thoughts and feelings with peers and adults. When unsure or unhappy, pupils trust staff to resolve issues swiftly. Bullying is rare and dealt with effectively. Attendance is improving rapidly. Behaviour is calm, kind and respectful. Pupils enjoy learning and share their breadth of knowledge across the curriculum. They particularly value reading and speak enthusiastically about favourite books and authors. As a result, pupils, including those who are disadvantaged, read widely and often. The library is a vibrant hub that pupils appreciate. Pupils are developing secure knowledge across most subjects. Staff identify and remove barriers to learning quickly. This enables pupils with additional needs to succeed. However, past weaknesses have left gaps in learning, reflected in recent published national outcomes. Writing remains a priority. Pupils’ spelling and handwriting are improving. However, further progress is needed to prepare them fully for secondary school. Pupils take pride in being responsible citizens. Leadership roles have a positive impact on the school environment, clubs and the wider community. Pupils value these roles and act as role models. They understand and apply the school’s teaching around respect, resilience and empathy. This prepares them well for life in modern Britain. Although many travel from beyond the local area, strong relationships flourish. Pupils celebrate differences and share achievements with pride. Those pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities are ambitious. They are well supported in these ambitions by peers and staff. The school promotes pupils’ interests and talents through bespoke clubs, musical recitals and community events. These help to strengthen links with local residents and extend experiences beyond the classroom.

What the school should improve

• Leaders must ensure that pupils secure their fundamental knowledge in writing so that they can demonstrate a broad and deep understanding of spelling, grammar and handwriting skills. This will equip pupils to achieve well in national outcomes and across the wider curriculum.

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