The Abbey Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School, St Albans

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 23 April 2025

Pupils relish attending this exceptionally happy school. They know that each day will be stimulating and varied. Pupils rise to the school's high expectations. They achieve exceptionally well across the school's ambitious curriculum. The school has a strong sense of family. Pupils welcome and support each other, celebrating their similarities and differences. Older pupils are 'special friends' for children in Reception. Staff know pupils as individuals. They use this knowledge to ensure that pupils' needs are met and that their interests are developed. Pupils attend a raft of clubs, including fencing, chess and child-led creative writing. Many well-chosen trips enhance the curriculum. Pupils encounter many visitors, from different faiths and careers. In Year 6, local magistrates teach pupils about the legal system. Pupils learn about social issues, such as homelessness, and raise money for charity. Pupils are fully prepared to become active citizens. Pupils have a plethora of opportunities to develop their leadership skills. The school council helped to develop the school's approach to behaviour, the 'Abbey Promise'. As a result, pupils understand and strive successfully to meet the school's high expectations of their behaviour. Pupils learn how to keep themselves healthy. They learn about road safety and how to safely use the internet.

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