This article is based on reporting from the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS), a BBC funded initiative set up to strengthen reporting on local democratic issues. The Staffordshire Signal has taken part in the scheme since September 2026, which means we're able to draw on a selection of LDRS stories alongside our own.
Inspectors highlighted the village school’s respectful atmosphere, support for pupils and links with its local community.
What’s new: Fulford Primary School’s latest Ofsted report praises pupils for their kindness and positive contribution to the community.
Why it matters: Inspectors found that personal development and wellbeing met a strong standard, including the school’s support for bereaved pupils.
What’s next: School leaders have been asked to continue developing the wider curriculum and give pupils more opportunities to use their writing skills across different subjects.
Pupils at Fulford Primary School have been praised for looking after one another and playing an active part in their local community.
In a report published this month, Ofsted inspectors described a calm and respectful school where staff champion the children in their care. Pupils learn about their local area through history walks and raise money for local charities with sponsored “welly walks”.
The school met expected standards in achievement, attendance and behaviour, curriculum and learning, early years, inclusion, and leadership and governance. Inspectors judged personal development and wellbeing to meet a strong standard.
The report highlighted the school’s work on acceptance and belonging. Pupils learn British Sign Language to help them understand the experiences of people with hearing impairments, while assemblies introduce them to visitors from different backgrounds.
“Behaviour in school is positive, pupils are kind and caring towards each other (and) they treat everyone with respect and courtesy. Staff support those who struggle with their emotions well.”
Older pupils also help younger children at lunchtime, cutting up food, pouring drinks and playing games with them. Inspectors said this helps the younger pupils build confidence and social skills.
The report found that, by the end of Year 6, pupils’ achievement in reading and maths is above the national average. It also said disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs and/or disabilities make good progress from their starting points.
Inspectors advised school leaders to keep developing the wider curriculum so that tasks are consistently suitable for all pupils across every subject. They also called for more opportunities for pupils to apply their writing skills in other lessons.
Headteacher Scott Brockhurst said:
“We are incredibly proud of our Ofsted report, which reflects the dedication, care and hard work of Fulford’s staff, both past and present.
“It highlights what a truly wonderful and special place Fulford is, where children are known, valued and supported to thrive. This achievement belongs to our whole school community and perfectly captures the strength of our amazing Fulford Family.”
Written by Jenna Goodwin, with additional reporting by Kerry Ashdown, Local Democracy Reporter.
Support local journalism
Help us grow the Signal
Every tip goes towards expanding what we cover, more reporters, more events, more of Staffordshire's stories told properly. If this was worth reading, help us do more of it.
Every contribution supports reporting, photography, and storytelling across the county.
Join The Staffordshire Signal on WhatsApp
Never miss a single breaking update, local news story, community event, or deep dive. See everything happening in Staffordshire first, straight to your phone!
Get Instant Updates
