Ripley Infant School

Overview

Ripley Infant School is judged as ‘Good’ across all inspection categories, including the quality of education, behaviour, and leadership. Pupils enjoy attending the school, describing it as ‘amazing’, and benefit from an ‘ambitious curriculum’ that prioritises reading and clear knowledge progression. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils understand its ‘ASPIRE’ values and feel safe, supported by effective safeguarding arrangements.

Strengths

• The curriculum is ‘well planned’, with clear knowledge and vocabulary goals that help pupils build understanding over time.
• Reading is a high priority; staff are ‘well trained’ in phonics, ensuring most pupils learn to read fluently through daily support and matched books.
• Pupils behave well, guided by a clear behaviour system and regular praise, while attendance is ‘improving’ through strong family partnerships.
• Children in Reception benefit from a ‘well-planned curriculum’ that develops communication skills and prepares them well for key stage 1.
• Staff feel ‘well supported’, and governors provide ‘effective challenge and support’ to school leaders.

Areas to improve

• Teachers must ensure activity choices are ‘well matched to the intended learning’ so pupils can learn as effectively as possible.
• The school should provide teachers with ‘precise information’ about pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) to ensure they access the curriculum and achieve well.

Safeguarding

The report states that ‘the arrangements for safeguarding are effective’.