STOKE Bishop Church of England Primary is celebrating a highly positive report from Ofsted.
The school was one of the first to be inspected under the watchdog’s new, tougher framework, which rates schools in a number of categories rather than giving an overall judgement.
Stoke Bishop was rated strong for early years provision, attendance and behaviour and personal development and wellbeing. Achievement, teaching and curriculum, inclusion and leadership and governance were all judged to meet the expected level, while safeguarding also met expectations.
“Pupils enjoy coming to this this welcoming and inclusive school,” the Ofsted report said. “Parents are overwhelmingly positive.
“Leaders and staff know pupils for the individuals they are. They take time to forge caring relationships with them.”
The inspectors highlighted children’s “exemplary” behaviour and attitudes to learning.
“Pupils are extremely polite and well mannered, showing high levels of empathy towards others.”
The report noted that the school’s personal development programme was “extensive and extremely well constructed” and that children were given a wide range of additional opportunities.
“These experiences develop pupils’ artistic, sporting and musical talents and broaden their knowledge of the world around them.
“The school’s excellent pastoral offer supports pupils with their mental health and wellbeing. This ensures that pupils feel welcome, valued and included in school life.”
The curriculum was described as ambitious and well designed. Results were found to be consistently above the national average.
“Inclusion lies at the heart of the school’s work. Leaders and staff share a clear commitment to removing any challenges that the most vulnerable pupils face,” the report said.
The school, which has 395 pupils on its roll, has had leadership changes in recent years, with current headteacher Darren Hunt taking up his role in September 2025.
Ofsted said: “Governors and trustees have led the school through this period of change well.
“Governors have a clear and ambitious vision for the school. They hold leaders to account for their actions.
“Staff are proud to work at the school. They value the way in which everyone works as part of a close-knit team.”