Our most recent inspection was in April 2026.

You can view the inspection report here.

The inspectors were highly impressed with the children and the way they spoke about their school as well as their learning. They are clearly proud of what they achieve at Anstey!

Achievement 

Pupils secure foundations in reading, writing and mathematics because staff teach key knowledge well and check understanding regularly. 

Pupils are confident in talking about learning, especially when discussing mathematics or history. 

Disadvantaged pupils and pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities usually progress appropriately because staff know them well and adapt tasks. 

Attendance and behaviour 

Pupils who find the mornings difficult use the breakfast club and reintegration planning to help them settle and attend more frequently. 

Leaders have high expectations for behaviour, which have been realised. 

Pupils’ behaviour is typically calm, respectful and orderly. 

Curriculum and Teaching 

Pupils benefit from an ambitious and broad curriculum. 

The shared lesson approach helps pupils settle quickly, recap earlier learning and build new knowledge in small steps. 

The wider curriculum is organised through ‘Big Questions’ and ‘Big Ideas’, helping pupils connect learning across subjects and remember key content over time. 

Staff know pupils well and adapt teaching through small-group work and tailored resources. 

 

EYFS 

Children in the early years follow a carefully considered curriculum that builds the skills and knowledge they need for future learning. 

Children generally experience a calm provision where staff know them well and help them feel safe, confident and ready to learn. 

Staff work closely with parents through regular communication and transition activities. 

Staff adapt routines so that children with additional needs generally take part. 

Careful checking across the various areas of learning helps children reach a good level of development by the end of the reception year. 

Leadership and governance 

Leaders are passionate about providing the best educational offer that they can for their pupils. The impact of this work is evident in pupils’ achievement. 

Governors are experienced, long standing and deeply committed to the school community. 

Staff unanimously agree the school is well-led and managed, matching parents’ views. 

Leaders prioritise strong foundations in reading and mathematics and they continue to refine curriculum planning. Leaders have also strengthened the wider curriculum provision.

Inclusion 

Pupils feel cared for and listened to. 

Parents receive prompt responses to concerns. 

Pupils who need extra help often receive pastoral support. This helps them feel safe and attend more regularly. 

Personal Development and Wellbeing 

The school does support pupils’ personal development through its caring culture and daily routines. 

Pupils learn in a calm and welcoming environment. 

Staff know pupils well and help them feel safe and valued. 

Pupils build confidence and friendships through a range of wider activities. 

Pupils' experience of Anstey

Pupils experience a calm, welcoming and nurturing school. The values of respect, resilience and responsibility shape their daily life. 

Pupils say that staff are kind and help them when learning feels difficult. 

Pupils in this small community play together happily across age groups. 

Pupils take part in wider experiences such as forest school, music, clubs and community events. This helps them build confidence and independence. 

Pupils achieve, belong and thrive in a school that places their wellbeing and happiness at the centre.