St Mary's Church of England Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 22 October 2024

Pupils thrive in this caring school community. Older pupils are wonderful role models for younger ones. They take their roles and responsibilities seriously, such as being peer mediators, prefects, librarians and school councillors. Pupils' conduct matches the school's values of wisdom, hope, respect and community. For example, pupils independently organise peer-to-peer reading sessions in the school library. Pupils develop their character and resilience in an exemplary way and are well prepared for their next stage of education. The school helps pupils to develop a sense of belonging and connection to their immediate environment and the world beyond school. Pupils spoke with enthusiasm about their local walks, and deep understanding of local history. Visiting speakers enrich the curriculum and pupils' lives, such as when they heard a first-hand account from a wartime evacuee linked to the pupils' history topic. Pupils also benefit from hearing inspirational talks from local artists and writers. Pupils' behaviour is excellent. Staff apply the behaviour policy fairly and consistently. Pupils are happy, safe and are very proud of their school. Staff have high expectations for pupils' achievement. In most subjects and subject areas these expectations are realised. Most pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), achieve well, including in reading, writing and mathematics.

What the school should improve

• In some subjects, the school does not check what pupils know and can do effectively. Sometimes, pupils do not understand key information securely before the school introduces new learning. The school should ensure that staff identify and resolve errors and misconceptions in pupils' understanding. In doing so, this will help pupils to build their learning more successfully over time.
• Sometimes, from the beginning of the early years, the school does not implement its writing curriculum in the ways that it intends. As a result, by the end of key stage 2, some disadvantaged pupils do not achieve as well as they could. The school should ensure that all staff receive the help and guidance that they need to support all pupils' writing skills successfully.

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