St Dennis Primary Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 2 February 2023

St Dennis is built on strong relationships. Pupils have a great sense of pride in the school. They gain this, for example, through representing the school in sports competitions. Staff meet pupils' individual needs well, including those of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). As a result, St Dennis is a happy and welcoming environment for all. Pupils behave well in classrooms and in the playground. They are polite and courteous. For example, they hold doors open for visitors. Pupils show great enthusiasm for learning, including in the early years. They talk confidently about what they have learned. Pupils say that if bullying occurs, adults sort it out quickly. Leaders have prioritised trips and experiences beyond the classroom. For example, older pupils talk excitedly about their residential trip to London. Trips such as this increase their knowledge of life beyond Cornwall. Pupils gain leadership skills through taking on roles such as those on the school council and eco council. They attend a range of clubs, including yoga, newspaper writing and football. These clubs extend pupils' interests and talents. Leaders closely monitor the uptake of clubs. They ensure that a high proportion of disadvantaged pupils and those with SEND take part.

What the school should improve

• In a few subjects, teachers do not build precisely enough on what pupils already know. As a result, some pupils' knowledge in these subjects is not as strong. Leaders need to ensure that teachers build on what pupils know in all subjects so that pupils know and remember more.

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