A school where pupils flourish

Inspectors found that pupils flourish in a safe and nurturing environment where they feel valued and eager to learn. The report highlights a broad and well-organised curriculum, positive behaviour and a culture that encourages pupils to be curious, resilient and ambitious for the future.

Ofsted noted that leaders have worked with pace to establish a culture where every pupil is "seen, heard and valued", creating a vibrant learning community where children are encouraged to succeed both academically and personally.

Strong recognition for personal development

One of the strongest features recognised by inspectors was the school's approach to personal development and wellbeing, which was judged to be at a Strong Standard.

Inspectors praised the school's carefully designed programme, which reflects the needs of its community and helps pupils develop a deep understanding of equality, diversity and British values. They also highlighted the extensive range of enrichment opportunities available to pupils through clubs, leadership roles and the popular Cavendish Enrichment Passport.

Inclusion at the heart of the school

The report also recognises the school's commitment to inclusion. Inspectors found that leaders have high ambitions for every pupil and work closely with families to ensure that individual needs are understood and supported. Staff were praised for providing targeted interventions and for working effectively with external agencies to support pupils' wellbeing and achievement.

Progress recognised

Inspectors acknowledged that published outcomes from 2025 do not reflect the quality of education currently being experienced by pupils in school. The report states that leaders recognised the decline in attainment and acted swiftly to improve achievement. During the inspection, pupils' work demonstrated that they are achieving well across the curriculum and developing the knowledge and skills needed for future success.

A positive school community

Ofsted highlighted the strength of relationships across the school community. Parents were described as highly positive about the school, while staff reported feeling valued and well supported through professional development and a strong focus on wellbeing. Inspectors found morale to be high and noted that leaders consistently act in the best interests of pupils.

Trust response

Duncan Jacques CBE, Chief Executive Officer of Exceed Academies Trust, said:

"This report recognises the caring, ambitious and inclusive culture that has been established at Cavendish Primary School.

The inspection highlights the dedication of leaders and staff to ensuring every child is known, valued and supported to achieve their full potential.

I would like to thank Jonathan Nixon, the staff team, pupils, governors and families whose collective efforts have contributed to this positive outcome. We are particularly pleased that inspectors recognised the school's strengths in personal development, inclusion, safeguarding and the quality of support provided to pupils."

Building on strong foundations

The report identifies clear next steps as leaders continue their improvement journey, including further strengthening attendance, ensuring effective adaptations are consistently embedded across the curriculum and continuing to raise outcomes over time. Inspectors recognised that leaders have a clear understanding of the school's strengths and are ambitious for its future development.

For Exceed Academies Trust, the report provides strong recognition of a school that combines high expectations with care, inclusion and opportunity, ensuring that every child can thrive and succeed.