Widcombe Infant School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 6 January 2026

Pupils enjoy attending this highly inclusive and friendly school. They benefit from the warm welcome they receive from staff. Staff know pupils well. They forge positive relationships with pupils and their families. This ensures a positive start to the school day and that pupils are ready to learn. Pupils demonstrate the school's values of friendship, kindness, honesty, respect and perseverance. Pupils of all ages play well together during social times. They are adamant that any form of bullying does not occur. Pupils know they can talk to adults about any worries or concerns they may have. This helps pupils to feel safe. Pupils typically live up to the school's high expectations for behaviour. They follow the school rules and move in and around the school sensibly. This begins in the early years, where children respond well to the routines that are well established and understood. Pupils have a thirst for learning. They are keen to share their ideas with their peers and make a positive contribution during class discussions. Staff routinely identify and remove any challenges that the most vulnerable pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities, face. This helps pupils to succeed in their learning. Most pupils attend well. Where attendance falls below the school's high expectations, leaders work closely with families to understand and overcome any barriers. This is having a positive impact on improving attendance for the pupils and families who need it the most. Pupils participate enthusiastically in a wide range of enrichment opportunities, including football, dance and gymnastics. Their learning is enriched by varied educational visits, such as trips to a bird of prey centre. These experiences broaden pupils' horizons and foster personal growth. Pupils take considerable pride in the leadership roles offered by the school, such as house captains, librarians and play leaders. Through these responsibilities, pupils develop confidence, teamwork and an understanding of how their contributions make a positive difference to the school community.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that teachers design learning activities that consistently build and deepen pupils' knowledge, understanding and skills across the wider curriculum.
• Leaders should ensure that staff in the early years consistently maximise the opportunities they have to engage children in high-quality interactions, both inside and outside the classroom.

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