Helpston's John Clare Primary School celebrates glowing Ofsted report

John Clare Primary School, part of Soke Education Trust, has achieved an impressive Ofsted report under a new framework designed to raise national standards across seven key areas: achievement, attendance and behaviour, curriculum, early years, inclusion, leadership and governance, and personal development and wellbeing.

Following an inspection on 21st April 2026, Ofsted has recognised the school as ‘Strong’ in all categories, reflecting its commitment to high standards across all aspects of school life.

Sarah Nicolson, Headteacher at John Clare Primary School, said: “I am absolutely delighted with this outcome. Ofsted saw what I see every day at school, confident, supportive and ambitious learners who thrive in our safe and supportive school environment.”

Ofsted inspectors highlighted the school's positive culture, stating, “A culture of respect is established throughout the school” and that “bullying is almost unheard of”. Pupils were praised for consistently acting with kindness, independence and resilience, including taking on roles such as lunchtime buddies, sports ambassadors and school council members.

The “warm and trusting relationships” pupils form with their teachers were further noted by Ofsted, who stated, “Staff skilfully guide children in the Reception Year to quickly find their feet when they start school. This helps them to feel safe and ready to explore.” Year 6 children “leave as well-rounded, kind and considerate young people, ready to make positive contributions to their community.” The children's behaviour was described as “impeccable” by the inspector who recognised that, “The school is not only filled with hard work and concentration, but fun, smiles and laughter.”

The wide array of opportunities that the school offers, from visits to theatre productions and a winning performance at the Oundle Music Festival, to the annual John Clare poetry competition, campfire cooking and even building a small business enterprise, were specifically praised by Ofsted.

Ofsted praised the “highly tailored support and guidance” provided to pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). “Teachers make skilful adaptions to their teaching and resources, to help pupils learn well and meet their needs.”

The report also recognised the “kind and supportive working relationship” that school leaders form with trustees and members of the local governing board. The report further stated that “Staff are very proud to work here. Leaders look after staff wellbeing and take sensible steps to manage their workload.”

These positive relationships extend to parents and carers, with Ofsted highlighting that, “The school sits at the heart of the local community. Leaders and staff build and maintain very positive relationships with parents and carers.”

Pupil performance in reading, writing and mathematics has been above the national average for the past three years. This reflects teachers’ ‘deep subject knowledge’, with concepts explained clearly and misconceptions addressed swiftly, alongside strong phonics teaching and timely catch-up support.

The report added that, “Pupils learn rich and detailed knowledge across the curriculum. Pupils develop a wide and ambitious vocabulary. They use this to describe geographical features correctly, talk about periods in history fluently, and accurately compare pieces of music.”

Sarah added: “The report reflects the closeness in the school and our ambition to nurture confident and considerate learners. Our pupils are truly at the heart of every decision we make, and I am proud that Ofsted has recognised this. It’s a pleasure to work alongside dedicated teachers and staff members who constantly exceed expectations, helping us to better our school year on year.”

Cathy Carlisle, CEO of Soke Education Trust, said: “It is fantastic to see this positive report, which reflects the talent and hard work of everyone within the school community. This outcome is a testament to the commitment of our staff, governors, pupils and families, who work together every day to create an inspiring and inclusive school culture.

“I would also like to recognise the hard work of colleagues across Soke Education Trust for their ongoing commitment to the success of our schools.”

The full report can be found here: John Clare Primary School - Open - Find an Inspection Report - Ofsted

For more information about the school, visit: https://www.johnclareschool.org/