Ofsted Inspection May 2026

10^th June 2026

Dear families,

I am incredibly proud to share with you the outcome of our recent Ofsted inspection.

The inspectors judged six out of seven areas as meeting their ‘Expected Standard’. They also found that our safeguarding is effective.

Before going into the detail, I want to celebrate our children. They shaped every conversation inspectors had, every lesson they visited and every part of school life they experienced. It is a privilege to work with them every day. I am delighted that the inspection captures so much of what makes them special.

What stood out most to me was how clearly the report reflects our values and culture. We work hard to build these together as a community. As a result, inspectors saw children who are happy, safe, eager to learn and proud of their school.

"This positive culture helps pupils to feel a deep sense of belonging and pride in their school."

"Relationships between staff and pupils are warm and nurturing."

"Pupils know they can turn to any member of staff to help them with any worries they may have. This helps them to feel safe and secure."

"Pupils enjoy their learning at Carclaze."

"Many of them are enthusiastic and keen learners who are eager to acquire new knowledge."

These comments capture what we strive for Carclaze to be: a place where children feel known, valued and supported to achieve their best.

I am also pleased that inspectors recognised the inclusive nature of our school. They particularly noted our staff’s commitment to supporting every child to succeed:

"Carclaze is a school for all."

"Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities participate fully in school life."

The inspection also highlights the strength of our attendance work and the positive impact this this is having for children.

"Leaders have established very effective attendance systems."

"They work relentlessly with families to remove barriers to attendance."

These comments belong to all of us. They reflect the dedication of our staff, the importance of your support and the value of our partnership with Cornwall Education Learning Trust.

The report also acknowledges that leaders have "an accurate view of the school's strengths and weaknesses". This matters, because meaningful school improvement starts with being honest about where we can do better and working together to achieve that.

So we welcome the three improvement priorities that emerge clearly from the report:

We have to strengthen Early Years provision. This is about raising expectations and ensuring that learning builds children's knowledge and skills more effectively.

We need to implement support for pupils with SEND more consistently. This is to ensure every child receives the precise support they need to succeed.

We must continue to strengthen communication with families and staff. This will mean you consistently receive information that is clear and timely.

I want to note that while Early Years has its own area within the inspection framework, it is also a subset of every other inspection area.

Our strengths in achievement, behaviour, attendance, inclusion, personal development, curriculum and leadership therefore include our Early Years provision.

This gives us a solid foundation from which to continue to ensure every child receives the very best start to their education.

The successes highlighted in this report belong to us all: our children, staff, families and wider community. We are proud to serve Carclaze and grateful for your consistent support, trust and partnership.

Together, we will continue to build on our strengths, address the areas that need improvement and ensure every child receives an exceptional educational experience, with Curious Minds, Kind Hearts and Bright Futures at its heart.

Read the full inspection report below

Yours sincerely,

Emma Williams
Headteacher

What Ofsted said: