Sutton Courtenay CE Primary School, a school in Ridgeway Education Trust, was inspected by Ofsted on 22nd and 23rd September.  We are thrilled that the school has now been judged as meeting the ‘expected’ standard across all 7 evaluation areas.   

Inspectors found that, following the school’s second ‘Requires Improvement’ judgement in their previous inspection in November 2023, Sutton Courtenay has seen considerable leadership and staff changes.  These have “secured significant progress in many areas of the school”.  As a result, “pupils arrive at school smiling and excited for the day.  They are greeted with warmth and care”.  

We are delighted that inspectors agreed with our evaluations of the improvements leaders at school and trust level have brought about at Sutton Courtenay in the last two years.  The next steps identified by Ofsted – such as continuing to improve attendance - are already ongoing focuses for school and trust leaders.   

The wonderful children at Sutton Courtenay, who every day “demonstrate the school’s principles of ‘ready, respectful and responsible’ and treat everyone with kindness”, have a school to be proud of.  We would like to pass on thanks to the school team – leaders, teachers, support staff and governors – for the hard work, talent and commitment that is reflected in this outcome.   Thanks, too, to the parents, carers and families for all they do to support the school. 

Raluca Chende, Headteacher at Sutton Courtenay CE Primary School, said: The inspection provided an opportunity for inspectors to see our school as it truly is. They saw a community where children are known, valued and cared for; where character and personal development are nurtured alongside academic success; and where staff work relentlessly to help every child build the knowledge, confidence and skills they need to thrive.  Most importantly, they saw children who are happy, safe and proud to be part of our school community. 

Georgina Littler, CEO of Ridgeway Education Trust, said: Now that Sutton Courtenay is now judged to be an effective school for the first time since 2012 is testament to the remarkable hard work and determination of Mrs. Chende and the whole school team.   I am extremely grateful to our staff and governors. Their talent, expertise and commitment has made Sutton Courtenay such a special place to learn, and one which we know will continue to go from strength-to-strength.