Whitchurch CofE Primary rated "good" – early years provision "outstanding"

Whitchurch CofE Primary School, near Ross-on-Wye, has been praised by Ofsted inspectors following their visit on 25th and 26th March 2025.

The school, which had not been fully inspected since 2012, has been judged “Good” in education, behaviour, personal development, and leadership – with its Early Years provision rated “Outstanding.”

Warm and inclusive community

Inspectors described Whitchurch as a welcoming and inclusive school with high expectations. Children receive an excellent start in the Early Years, where they quickly become independent, curious, and confident learners.

Pupils were found to behave well, showing trust, kindness, and friendship in their daily interactions. They are polite, well-mannered, and keen to learn. Staff make sure pupils feel safe and listened to, creating a culture of support and care.

What the school does well

• Curriculum: Ambitious and broad, designed to build pupils’ knowledge over time. Reading and maths lessons follow a clear structure, helping pupils revisit, learn new content, and practise regularly.
  
• Reading: A strong priority from the start. Phonics is taught consistently by skilled staff, and books match children’s reading levels. Those who fall behind receive quick support.
  
• SEND Support: Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities are identified early and supported effectively. They learn alongside their peers and achieve well.
  
• Early Years: Rated Outstanding. Teachers know each child well and tailor learning to their needs. A strong focus on language and communication gives children the vocabulary and confidence they need. Pupils develop excellent concentration and learning behaviours.
  
• Personal Development: Pupils are well prepared for life in modern Britain, learning about respect, tolerance, online safety, and healthy living. Leadership opportunities, such as the School Parliament, give pupils a real voice – including helping to interview new staff.
  
• Staff and Leadership: Teachers and support staff say morale is high. Headteacher Beth Stevens was praised for her leadership, and governors, led by Ione Taylor, were recognised for knowing the school well and providing strong support and challenge.

Areas to improve

Inspectors highlighted two main areas for further improvement:

1. Curriculum Implementation: In some subjects, teaching does not fully match the school’s intentions. This means pupils do not always make strong connections between topics.
   
2. Checking Understanding: Sometimes misconceptions are not corrected quickly enough, so pupils can repeat errors. The school needs to strengthen systems for checking what children know and remember.

School details

• Headteacher: Beth Stevens
  
• Chair of Governors: Ione Taylor
  
• Type: Voluntary Aided Primary School (part of the Diocese of Hereford)
  
• Age Range: 2–11
  
• Pupils on roll: 168
  
• Address: Whitchurch, Ross-on-Wye, HR9 6DA
  
• Website: www.whitchurchschool.org.uk

Safeguarding

Safeguarding was judged effective, with inspectors finding pupils feel safe and confident in the school’s caring environment.

Whitchurch CofE Primary, once judged Outstanding in 2012, has now been confirmed as a “Good” school with “Outstanding” early years provision, giving pupils a strong foundation for learning and life.