Ofsted

OFSTED Inspection Summary: Wansdyke School (April 2026)

Wansdyke School in Devizes was judged to be providing a strong standard of education, with safeguarding fully effective. Inspectors found the school to be a welcoming, inclusive environment where pupils are happy, feel safe, and are supported to achieve well.

Key Strengths

Achievement

• Pupils, including those with SEND and disadvantaged pupils, achieve well from their starting points.
• Pupils demonstrate strong knowledge, understanding and recall across the curriculum.
• Reading, handwriting and mathematics are particularly well developed.
• Although national test outcomes are below average, inspectors noted that these figures do not accurately reflect pupils' progress because a high proportion of pupils have complex SEND needs. 

Inclusion and SEND Provision

• The school was praised for its highly effective support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities.
• Staff know pupils exceptionally well and adjust support as needs change.
• Pupils attending the specialist resource provision receive tailored support while maintaining access to an ambitious curriculum.
• Leaders use additional funding effectively to overcome barriers to learning and attendance.

Behaviour and Attendance

• Behaviour is calm, positive and respectful.
• Pupils follow routines well and contribute to a harmonious learning environment.
• Bullying is rare, and pupils trust staff to address concerns effectively.
• Despite challenges associated with pupils' complex needs, the school provides extensive support to encourage regular attendance. 

Early Years

• Children make a strong start in Reception.
• Teaching of phonics, communication and language is effective.
• The curriculum is engaging and responsive to children's needs and interests.
• Children with additional needs are identified and supported early. 

Leadership and Governance

• Leaders have a strong understanding of the school's strengths and areas for development.
• Governors and trustees provide effective challenge and support.
• Staff feel valued and report that leaders consider workload and wellbeing when implementing changes.
• Parents are highly positive about the school and communication with families is strong. 

Areas for Further Development

Inspectors identified two areas where the school could improve:

1. Curriculum and Teaching

   • On some occasions, teaching is not adapted quickly enough to reflect pupils' prior learning, meaning a small number of pupils do not make progress as rapidly as they could.

2. Personal Development Opportunities

   • The school offers a wide range of clubs and enrichment activities. However, leaders do not monitor participation closely enough to ensure all pupils, particularly those facing barriers, benefit equally from these opportunities.

Inspectors found that pupils:

• Enjoy learning and find lessons engaging.
• Feel safe and well supported by adults.
• Value the school's culture of kindness, inclusion and respect.
• Work and play cooperatively with pupils of all ages and abilities.
• Benefit from a variety of trips and experiences that broaden their horizons. 

Overall Conclusion

The inspection presents a highly positive picture of Wansdyke School. Strengths include its inclusive ethos, effective SEND provision, strong leadership, positive behaviour culture and successful support for pupil wellbeing. Inspectors concluded that pupils achieve well, feel valued and safe, and that the school provides a strong standard of education, with only minor areas identified for further improvement.