St Mary's CofE First Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 23 June 2026

Pupils live out the school’s values of honesty, kindness and respect in the way they learn, play and interact. A strong sense of belonging is evident in how confidently they talk about their school, describing it as a place where they feel happy, cared for and listened to. Warm, trusting relationships with staff are a significant strength. Pupils say adults are always there when they need help. This consistent support enables them to feel safe and ready to learn. Calm routines and respectful interactions help pupils focus fully on their learning. Positive behaviour is the norm. In lessons, pupils concentrate well, follow instructions promptly and support one another with kindness. Around school, they move sensibly and play cooperatively. Pupils are clear about the difference between bullying and isolated incidents and trust adults to act quickly. Enjoyment of learning shines through in pupils’ enthusiasm for topics such as space and the natural world. They speak proudly about their achievements and describe lessons as fun, interesting and appropriately challenging. Their work shows that they are achieving well. Most pupils read with increasing fluency, write persuasively using ambitious vocabulary and apply subject-specific knowledge confidently. A strong sense of inclusion is woven through daily life. Pupils with additional needs benefit from additional help such as visual prompts, sensory circuits and targeted reading support. This helps them to keep up with their peers. Opportunities beyond the classroom enrich pupils’ experiences. Clubs, leadership roles and performances from the music band help pupils develop confidence and character. Regular attendance reflects pupils’ enjoyment of school and their commitment to learning. They thrive because they feel safe, behave well and enjoy their lessons.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that teaching in the foundation subjects is consistently effective and that teachers adapt learning effectively across the wider curriculum so that pupils build secure knowledge.
• Leaders should further strengthen the personal development offer so that pupils gain a broader understanding of different faiths and cultures.

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