St Mary's Church of England Primary School, Edwinstowe

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 1 October 2024

Pupils speak proudly about their school. They are full of praise for the interesting lessons and the care that they receive from staff. Many pupils shared examples of when staff 'always listen' and 'sort things out' on the rare occasions that help is needed. Pupils say that this helps them to feel safe and secure in school. Pupils are enthusiastic learners who are motivated and achieve well. Their positive attitudes to learning are reflected in their good behaviour in lessons and around school. Children in the early years settle quickly into the expected routines. They are well placed to succeed, because staff have designed a well-planned curriculum that provides a secure foundation for Year 1 and beyond. Parents and carers typically appreciate the 'strong sense of community' in this small, vibrant school. Many also praise the school's 'caring and respectful culture', which they say enables their children to 'thrive'. Pupils benefit from the school's idyllic location on the edge of Sherwood Forest. The outdoor areas have been purposefully designed to make the most of the natural environment. This aspect of the school's provision supports pupils' physical and mental health and well-being very well.

What the school should improve

• The implementation of the revised curriculum is not consistently strong in all parts of the school. Occasionally, teachers' explanations are not clear enough, and the work given does not enable pupils to understand and learn the curriculum. Consequently, pupils' behaviour sometimes becomes unsettled, and they lose focus or become confused about the purpose of the activities. On those occasions, pupils do not develop the detailed knowledge and skills they need. The school should ensure that the revised curriculum is implemented securely and consistently across the school, so that all pupils know and remember more over time.

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