Widcombe CofE Junior School in Bath is delighted to announce the exceptional outcomes of its recent Ofsted inspection, held on 18–19 March 2025. The report praises the school for providing an outstanding education, with all graded areas – including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management – rated as Outstanding.
Inspectors described Widcombe as a school where ‘pupils flourish’ and where the ethos to ‘be the best you can be’ is fully realised through an ambitious and inspiring curriculum. The report highlights that pupils demonstrate ‘impeccable behaviour,’ a ‘palpable enthusiasm for learning’ and show maturity, confidence, and empathy beyond their years.
A major strength of the school is its carefully designed curriculum, which provides pupils with deep and interconnected knowledge across subjects. Teachers are supported with ongoing training, and pupils are encouraged to think creatively and independently. As a result, their writing is described as ‘superb’ and their recall of knowledge in subjects like history and science is both detailed and impressive.
The school’s provision for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) is described as exemplary. Staff work closely with families to tailor support, enabling all pupils to access the full curriculum and achieve highly. This inclusive approach ensures every child is given the opportunity to thrive.
Widcombe also stands out for its rich programme of wider opportunities. From performing in school productions inspired by West End visits, to trips to France and residentials that build confidence, pupils are exposed to a wide range of cultural and personal development experiences. Clubs such as mindfulness, sewing and languages broaden their interests, and the school ensures high levels of participation from all pupils, including those who are experiencing disadvantage.
A strong reading culture is embedded throughout the school. Pupils are described as avid readers who are often seen with a book in hand, and those at the early stages of learning to read receive excellent support through well-matched phonics teaching. This fosters both fluency and a lifelong love of reading.
Safeguarding at the school is highly effective, with pupils reporting they feel safe and supported. Staff were also praised for fostering an open and positive culture that puts pupils’ welfare first. The dedication of school leaders, including the executive headteacher, head of school, trust CEO and trustees, was noted as a key driver of the school’s continued success.
Executive Headteacher Alison Watts and Head of School Aaron Harley commented, “We are incredibly proud of our pupils, staff and wider community. This report is a testament to the hard work, passion and dedication shown every day at Widcombe. We remain committed to nurturing confident, resilient learners with strong values and a love of learning.”
Widcombe CofE Junior School is part of the Palladian Academy Trust and serves the community of Bath with a mission to inspire every child to thrive.
Donna Tandy, CEO said, “The report recognises the strengths of Widcombe Junior School, the strong leadership, and the excellent and equitable opportunities on offer for the pupils. We are proud to celebrate this report with them and delighted that inspectors noted the positive impact being part of Palladian Academy Trust has on pupils and colleagues. I am delighted for the whole school community.”
Email: email hidden; JavaScript is required
