Shaw-cum-Donnington C.E. Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 1 July 2025

This village school is the heart of the community. Warm friendships flourish across all age groups, creating a strong sense of belonging. Older pupils carry out their role as 'buddy' to Reception children with diligence. Pupils feel safe and happy at school. Staff nurture pupils thoughtfully, creating a positive and inclusive environment. Pupils behave well in class and in the playground. They follow routines responsibly, such as walking to the village hall for lunch. Pupils act sensibly, are polite and are great role models for each other. They love winning gems as recognition for working hard and persevering. The school has high expectations of its pupils. Staff are unwavering in their belief that every pupil can and will succeed. They know their pupils well. Getting learning right for every pupil drives the staff of this school. As a result, pupils learn successfully. They are fully prepared for the next stages in their education. Pupils benefit from a well-planned programme of enrichment that broaden their horizons and support their personal development. They enjoy educational visits such as visits to museums, the theatre and places of worship. Pupils value their residential trip, challenging themselves as they learn new skills such as abseiling.

What the school should improve

• In a few foundation subjects, the activities pupils are given do not give pupils sufficient opportunities to think deeply, reason and solve problems independently. This means that, in those subjects, pupils are not learning as well as they could. The school should review its curriculum so that pupils develop their independent learning skills and deepen their knowledge, subject-specific skills and understanding over time.

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