Slinfold CofE Primary School and Pre School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 26 September 2023

Pupils are well cared for at this small, nurturing school. There is a warm and kind approach by all adults, who focus on building strong and trusting relationships. Pupils say that they feel delighted to come to school. They proudly share their achievements and feel excited by the wide range of opportunities available to them. Older pupils show care and compassion to the younger children. They love helping out in the pre-school and in the school's breakfast club. Across the social times, pupils play well together and readily share the provided play equipment. High expectations exist across the school. Pupils create 'class charters' to remind each other of the expected positive behaviours. Pupils are confident to share any concerns they may have. They do this in different ways, such as writing messages in 'worry boxes'. Younger pupils use the 'worry monster' to help express their feelings and emotions. Pupils' well-being and positive self-esteem threads through the school's provision. Pupils are taught to recognise and regulate their emotions. Pupils like to use 'positive affirmation jars' that have messages to help them recognise their strengths. They appreciate these regular thoughtful approaches that the staff use throughout the school day.

What the school should improve

• The curriculum in some subjects is at an earlier stage of development. In these subjects, leaders are yet to carefully identify and sequence the precise knowledge that pupils need to learn. Gaps in pupils' learning and misconceptions are not always identified as swiftly as they should and, therefore, pupils do not learn as much as they could. The school is aware of this and should continue to monitor their planned improvements.
• In some subjects, teachers do not always carefully check what pupils have understood and how much essential knowledge they remember. Consequently, teachers do not always have an accurate understanding of where pupils are less confident in what they know and understand. Teachers should be provided with the training and support they need to quickly identify, and address, any gaps in pupils' knowledge.

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