Belmont Primary Celebrates Glowing Ofsted Report

School praised for combining high academic standards with inclusivity

Belmont School

May 11, 2026

Belmont Primary School has been praised for delivering an “exceptional” quality of education after inspectors highlighted the school’s high academic standards, inclusive culture and nurturing environment in its latest OFSTED inspection.

The Belmont Road school welcomed four of His Majesty’s Inspectors over two days in March for its first inspection under OFSTED’s new Report Card system, which replaced the previous single-word judgements. Under the tougher framework, Belmont achieved “Strong standard” ratings across almost every category, with safeguarding fully meeting national requirements.

School leaders said the outcome reflected the dedication of pupils, staff, governors and families across the school community.

Inspectors found pupils “make great progress from their starting points, enjoy their learning and are articulate, successful learners”, while praising the school’s ambition for all children, including those with additional needs and barriers to learning.

The report repeatedly highlighted Belmont’s inclusive ethos, stating that “an inclusive culture is well-established across the school” and that “pupils are nurtured from the early years onwards.”

Behaviour and relationships were also singled out for praise, with inspectors noting that high expectations were “balanced with compassion” and rooted in “highly positive relationships between staff and pupils.”

Particular acclaim was given to the school’s early years provision, where children were described as curious and enthusiastic learners who develop confidence, vocabulary and concentration quickly through imaginative teaching and skilled support. Inspectors highlighted opportunities such as the pupil-run “Belmont Café” as examples of children taking pride in their learning.

Academic outcomes at the school were found to be consistently well above national averages. Over the past three years, 85 per cent of Belmont pupils achieved the expected standard in reading, writing and mathematics combined, compared with a national average of 61 per cent. Reading results were particularly strong, with 96 per cent of pupils meeting the expected standard, against a national figure of 74 per cent.

Inspectors also praised the performance of disadvantaged pupils, whose attainment was significantly above national averages across reading, writing and maths.

Beyond academic achievement, the report celebrated the school’s broad enrichment offer, including music, sport, educational visits and leadership opportunities. Inspectors noted that pupils take part in trips to museums and places of national interest, perform in bands and choirs, and engage thoughtfully with issues such as democracy, diversity and healthy relationships.

The report concluded that Belmont pupils leave the school as “confident and resilient young people” who are “thoroughly prepared for their next steps.”

Leadership at the school, headed by Michael Venn-Coffey, was commended for combining academic rigour with a “fun environment for pupils to learn in”. Governors were praised for providing effective oversight and support, while staff were described as feeling valued and listened to.