What OFSTED Say About The Downs Primary School and Nursery - May 2025 

OFSTED recognises The Downs Primary School and Nursery as a welcoming and nurturing environment where pupils are “polite and respectful” and benefit from strong, positive relationships with staff. These qualities help children feel safe, happy, and ready to learn.

The school sets high expectations for behaviour and learning, providing a broad and balanced curriculum that is both interesting and engaging. Pupils are encouraged to work hard and are generally attentive and motivated in lessons. Their positive behaviour extends beyond the classroom, with pupils playing well together during social times, supported by playleaders who help younger children enjoy activities appropriately.

OFSTED praised the school’s commitment to developing pupils’ understanding of the diverse world around them. Pupils take on meaningful leadership roles such as house captains, play leaders, and subject ambassadors, which empower them to make a positive difference in school life.

The report highlights the strength of the school’s curriculum, describing it as “coherently planned” with teachers who have secure subject knowledge. Pupils benefit from frequent opportunities to revisit prior learning, which supports strong knowledge retention and helps teachers address any learning gaps. While many pupils join the school mid-year, staff work diligently to ensure all children progress from their individual starting points.

Reading is a particular focus, with “consistent, high-quality phonics teaching” enabling pupils to quickly develop reading skills. The school regularly monitors pupils’ progress and provides effective support to ensure they keep up and catch up where needed.

The Nursery is praised for providing a calm, engaging start to school life, helping children develop early skills and prepare for Reception. The school continues to build on this foundation with a well-planned curriculum for Reception, aiming to maintain high expectations for children’s learning.

OFSTED also recognised the school’s commitment to enriching pupils’ experiences beyond the classroom, through activities such as community celebrations, singing events, visits from local figures like the community rabbi, and a wide range of trips and assemblies. These opportunities help develop well-rounded pupils.

Leaders, governors, and external advisers have played a key role in the school’s rapid progress. Governors “fulfil their statutory duties with fidelity” and work closely with the school to support and challenge leaders. Staff feel valued and supported, benefiting from helpful training and well-being strategies. Parents, too, appreciate the school’s strong communication and report positive experiences for their children.

The safeguarding arrangements at The Downs are effective, ensuring pupils’ safety is always a priority.

Quotes from the OFSTED Report:

• “Pupils who attend The Downs Primary School and Nursery are polite and respectful.”

• “Staff know pupils well and build positive relationships. This helps pupils to feel safe and happy.”

• “The school has developed a coherently planned, broad and balanced curriculum.”

• “Consistent, high-quality phonics teaching means that pupils quickly learn to read.”

• “Governors fulfil their statutory duties with fidelity and work collaboratively with the school.”

Overall, OFSTED’s findings reflect The Downs’ clear commitment to providing a supportive, engaging, and high-quality education for every pupil.

Link to OFSTED website: https://reports.ofsted.gov.uk/provider/21/146157

Read all about our school’s success and what makes us special in Your Harlow:
 https://www.yourharlow.com/2025/06/21/the-downs-primary-primary-highly-praised-by-ofsted-following-inspection/