Inspectors recognised a school where pupils are happy, feel valued and cared for, and benefit from a wide range of opportunities. A letter from Mr Tidey.
I am delighted to share the outcome of our recent Ofsted inspection and the publication of our report.
Please find a helpful video here which explains Ofsted’s new report cards:
New Ofsted report cards and grades: a guide for parents
The report is a wonderful recognition of the improvement journey our school has been on and the dedication of our entire community. Inspectors recognised a school where pupils are happy, feel valued and cared for, and benefit from a wide range of opportunities that broaden their horizons. They praised the school’s inclusive ethos, strong pastoral support, positive behaviour and clear vision for every child. Alongside these strengths, the report identifies a clear next step in further strengthening pupils’ retention of knowledge across some foundation subjects (e.g. History and Geography), providing us with a clear focus as we continue our improvement journey.
Executive Summary
Inspectors recognised that:
- Pupils are happy and enjoy attending our school.
- Children value being part of a community where everyone is known and cared for.
- The school’s vision of ‘small classes, wide horizons’ is reflected in pupils’ daily experiences.
- Pastoral support is a strength of the school.
- Pupils behave well and show respect and consideration towards others.
- Families appreciate the support provided by the school.
- Leaders have established a clear vision and place pupils’ needs at the centre of their work.
- Pupils benefit from a broad and enriching range of opportunities including trips, residential visits, sport, music, leadership opportunities and community involvement.
- Safeguarding is effective, with a strong culture where the welfare of children is a shared priority.
The report also identifies a clear next step for the school: strengthening pupils’ retention of knowledge in some wider curriculum subjects. Inspectors recognised that leaders are already aware of this priority and have begun taking action to address it.
Highlights from the Report
The report contains many comments that reflect what makes our school such a special place to learn and belong.
“Pupils are happy, and enjoy attending this small, inclusive school.”
“They value being part of a community where everyone is known and cared for.”
“The school’s vision of ‘small classes, wide horizons’ is reflected in pupils’ daily experiences.”
“Pupils, including those who face barriers to their learning or wellbeing, feel included and valued.”
“Families appreciate the support that the school provides.”
“Pupils behave well and show respect and consideration towards others.”
“Pastoral support is a strength of the school.”
“Leaders have established a clear vision for the school and make decisions that place pupils’ needs at the centre of their work.”
“A culture of professionalism and high expectations is evident across the school.”
“Staff value the support they receive and report that leaders are considerate of workload and wellbeing.”
A Team Effort
This report is a celebration of our children, staff, governors, families and the wider community. The inspection team saw a school built on strong relationships, high levels of care and a genuine commitment to ensuring every child feels valued, included and supported.
I am particularly pleased that inspectors recognised the warmth and inclusivity that are at the heart of our school. Their comments reflect the culture we strive to create every day: one where children feel safe, known and encouraged to thrive.
The report also highlights the many opportunities available to our pupils beyond the classroom. From educational visits and residential experiences to sporting events, leadership roles and musical performances, inspectors recognised how we bring our vision of ‘small classes, wide horizons’ to life.
While we are proud of the many strengths recognised in the report, we also welcome the clear next steps it provides. We remain ambitious for our pupils and are fully committed to ensuring that every child achieves their very best. The identified area for development will help shape the next stage of our improvement journey, and we are already taking action to strengthen this aspect of our curriculum.
Thank You
I would like to thank our staff team, governors, parents and carers for their unwavering support and commitment to our school. Most importantly, I would like to thank our wonderful children, whose enthusiasm, kindness and positive attitudes continue to shine in all that they do.
This report provides much to celebrate and many reasons to be proud. We look forward to building on these strengths together as we continue striving to provide the very best education and experiences for every child at Stedham Primary School.
Yours sincerely,
Nick Tidey
Executive Headteacher
Stedham Primary School
Read the report
Stedham Primary School Ofsted Report, September 2026 (PDF)
You can also find it, with our previous reports, on our Ofsted page.