Stoke Bishop Church of England Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 27 January 2026

Pupils enjoy coming to this welcoming and inclusive school. They understand how the school’s values enable them to 'believe it's possible’. Parents and carers are overwhelmingly positive. Many comment on the way their children ‘feel at home’ and how this helps them to thrive, both socially and academically. Leaders and staff know pupils for the individuals they are. They take time to forge caring relationships with them. Staff swiftly remove any barriers to pupils' learning and wellbeing. Children in the early years and pupils new to the school, including an increasing number who speak English as an additional language, develop a sense of belonging because of this. Pupils trust adults to listen and help them with any worries that may arise. This helps them to feel safe and cared for. Leaders and staff have high expectations for pupils’ behaviour and attendance. Pupils of all ages rise to meet these expectations. They behave well and rarely miss a day of school. Pupils are extremely polite and well mannered, showing high levels of empathy towards others. They take pride in showing ‘fantastic walking’, which helps them to move around the school calmly. Bullying is rare. Pupils know that if it did occur, staff would deal with it quickly. Pupils enjoy their learning. This starts in the early years, where children eagerly share their ideas. By the end of Year 6, many pupils achieve highly in national curriculum tests. Typically, pupils develop the knowledge and skills they need so that they are ready for the next stage of their education. Pupils are very well prepared for life beyond school. They enjoy a wide range of clubs and visits, such as choir and a residential camp in Year 6. They take pride in a wealth of leadership roles, including Reception ‘buddies’ and school councillors. Pupils say these roles gives them ‘a sense of importance’ and enable them to help others.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should continue to ensure that teachers have the knowledge and expertise to explain new ideas clearly across the curriculum, selecting and adapting learning activities that are well matched to pupils’ needs and the content being taught. • Leaders should continue to ensure that teachers check and probe pupils’ understanding and adapt their teaching accordingly to address gaps in knowledge or move pupils on to develop a deep understanding of key knowledge across the curriculum.

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