Following a recent inspection under Ofsted’s new framework, Coppice Valley Primary School in Harrogate has been praised for its highly inclusive culture and high-quality provision for pupils. The school achieved the strong standard for inclusion in recognition of excellent and consistently strong practice in this area.
It also met the expected standard in all other areas, which Ofsted describes as a high standard of education and care.
Inspectors described the school as “highly inclusive and welcoming”, noting that staff know the children well and take time to understand their individual needs, helping children feel supported, valued and able to thrive.
Miss McNamara, Headteacher at Coppice Valley Primary School, said:
We are proud of the inclusive culture we have built at Coppice Valley, where every pupil is known, valued and supported to succeed.
This recognition reflects the dedication of our staff, who work tirelessly to understand each child’s needs and ensure they feel a strong sense of belonging.
We are also grateful to our families and wider community, who play such an important role in making our school a welcoming and supportive place for all.
The school’s support for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities was also recognised, with staff working closely with families and specialists to ensure pupils receive the right help at the right time.
Early Years provision was praised for providing children with a warm and welcoming start to school. Inspectors found that children feel secure, develop strong communication and early reading skills, and build the foundations they need for future learning.
Inspectors also recognised the work undertaken by leaders to strengthen the curriculum, highlighting the progress made despite the leadership team only having been at the school for a few years. They noted that pupils build knowledge step by step and revisit key ideas so they can deepen their understanding and make connections across their learning.
The school’s strong sense of community was also praised. Through initiatives such as the ‘Belonging Builders’ programme, pupils contribute positively to school life and feel proud to belong to the Coppice community. Inspectors said that there is a strong focus on pupils’ wellbeing. Leaders have made mental health and wellbeing a priority, with initiatives such as ‘calm club’ and the ‘nest’ providing supportive spaces where pupils can manage their emotions and feel safe.
The report also highlights the wide range of opportunities that help pupils develop confidence and independence. Pupils take part in clubs of their choice, exploring interests such as cooking and crafting. Leadership opportunities, including roles such as eco council members and reading ambassadors, allow pupils to contribute to school life, while projects through initiatives such as ‘Coppice 50’ and ‘Coppice Gold’ encourage pupils to support others and raise money for charity.
Coppice Valley Primary School is part of Red Kite Learning Trust. Ian Tucker, who became Chief Executive Officer of the Trust last month, said:
Congratulations to Miss McNamara and her team on this positive outcome. The report reflects the consistent hard work and care that staff show at Coppice Valley each day.
It is encouraging to see the school’s inclusive approach and strong sense of belonging recognised. We value the school’s place within our Trust and look forward to continuing our work together as it builds on these strengths to ensure every pupil achieves their full potential.
- Ofsted introduced a new inspection framework for schools in England in November 2025. The framework replaces single headline grades with a standards-based approach that provides a clearer picture of how schools are performing.
- Under the framework, inspectors assess schools across several areas and judge whether they meet the expected standard, which indicates that pupils are receiving the education and support they need.
- Ofsted has been clear that the expected standard is a high standard.
- Where practice is particularly strong and consistently exceeds the expected level, inspectors may recognise this through a strong standard judgement.
- The new judgements cannot be compared to judgements made on the previous framework.
- The framework aims to provide a more balanced evaluation of schools, recognising effective practice while identifying areas for continued development.
- Coppice Valley Primary School is part of Red Kite Learning Trust, a multi-academy trust based in North Yorkshire that runs schools across the region.
- The school serves the local community in Harrogate and provides education for pupils aged 4–11.
- Hannah McNamara started as Head at Coppice Valley Primary School in September 2023.
