Copnor Primary School secures stellar Ofsted after making 'significant improvements'

Significant improvements have been made at a primary school which has been described as an ambitious setting with “strong and caring” relationships.

Copnor Primary School, in Portsmouth, has spent the past few years developing its curriculum and early years teaching following its previous ‘requires improvement’ Ofsted rating.

Copnor Primary School in Copnor Road, Portsmouth, has received a positive result in their recent Ofsted report. 

Pictured is: (front left) Matt Johnson, headteacher, and (back left) Lizzie Shackelford, deputy headteacher, with just some of the children at the school.

Picture: Sarah Standing (071025-1149)placeholder image
Copnor Primary School in Copnor Road, Portsmouth, has received a positive result in their recent Ofsted report. Pictured is: (front left) Matt Johnson, headteacher, and (back left) Lizzie Shackelford, deputy headteacher, with just some of the children at the school. Picture: Sarah Standing (071025-1149) | Sarah Standing

As a result, the school has leaped up the ranks, securing a stellar report, which was published on September 18 amid a two-day inspection on July 8 and 9 of this year.

The report outlined that “behaviour is excellent” across the school and students benefit from a “rich” experiences that promote development and help them discover their passions.

The Ofsted inspection said: “Since the previous inspection, the school has made significant improvements to its curriculum. It is now ambitious and well sequenced. All subjects have a strong foundation in the early years. Here, children develop both positive social and emotional skills alongside their learning.

“Regular checks on learning allow teachers to identify gaps and adapt teaching accordingly. Pupils revisit key content often, which helps them secure important knowledge and develop their skills.”

Copnor Primary School in Copnor Road, Portsmouth, has received a positive result in their recent Ofsted report.


Picture: Sarah Standing (071025-1120)placeholder image
Copnor Primary School in Copnor Road, Portsmouth, has received a positive result in their recent Ofsted report. Picture: Sarah Standing (071025-1120) | Sarah Standing

Matt Johnson, headteacher, said: “We are absolutely thrilled and delighted with our Ofsted report. It’s such a positive report that reflects the hard work, dedication and journey that our school has been on over the last couple of years.

“It’s a testament to all of our staff, the parents and most importantly our children.”

The phonics programme has been prioritised and it is now “well established” and taught well, with teachers consistently checking the progress being made amongst students.

As a result, the number of pupils passing the phonics screening check has increased dramatically, further demonstrating the dedication of staff and leaders alike.

The report also outlined that the school provides a wide range of materials and texts so students can develop their reading skills.

The report added: “Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are well supported. Staff identify needs accurately and ensure effective provision. The school works with external agencies where needed, helping pupils access learning and participate fully in school life.

“Leaders have successfully addressed the areas for improvement identified at the previous inspection. They have also strengthened other aspects of the school’s work.

“This shows their ambition for all pupils to be well prepared for their next steps, both in learning and more broadly. Governors share this ambition.”

The safeguarding measures are effective and there is a strong culture of keeping children safe.

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