March 17, 2026 10:33am
Pupils at Moorings Way Infant School, which belongs to Meon Way Federation, “feel safe, happy and arrive every day excited for their learning and to see the caring staff”, say the school inspectors in their latest report.
The school, which is part of the Thinking Schools Academy Trust on Moorings Way in Southsea, were recently inspected under Ofsted’s new framework which has replaced single-word judgements with detailed report cards.
The report judged the school to be meeting ‘Strong Standard’ for inclusion and personal development and wellbeing.
Ofsted also recognised the school to be meeting ‘Expected Standard’ in Achievement, Attendance and Behaviour, Curriculum and Teaching, Early Years, and Leadership and Governance – all of which are celebrated as best practice within schools.
Their report said: “The school’s personal development programme is carefully shaped around pupils’ needs and experiences”. It comments further that “the school prioritises pupils' wellbeing and includes their families in its nurturing ethos”.
“Pupils learn well across the curriculum. They make thoughtful comparisons and show skills of critical thinking”.
The inspector went on to highlight ‘high levels of attendance for all groups of pupils’ and pupils who need additional help ‘receive it in a highly personalised way’.
Praise was also given for Moorings Way Infant School’s Early Years provision where children are ‘happy and well cared for’ and their ‘emotional wellbeing is prioritised’.
Leaders hold a shared vision with the aim ‘to transform pupils' life chances’ and give pupils ‘the opportunities, knowledge and skills that they need to 'be their best self'’.
Leaders were recognised to have established a ‘coherent and well-designed professional learning programme’ as well as ‘regular, high-quality communication’ between them and parents.
Mrs Sara Paine, Executive Headteacher at Meon Way Federation who leads the school, said: “We are so proud of Moorings Way Infant School and their well-deserved praise and recognition from Ofsted.
“This report reflects the inclusive, welcoming environment we have for our pupils and our dedicated staff who ensure the school is a safe, secure place to learn”
Mrs Rachel Thripp, Head of School at Moorings Way Infant School, said she was delighted to see the efforts of pupils, staff and parents recognised by Ofsted:
“To receive such an overwhelmingly positive report from Ofsted is such a wonderful achievement and everyone connected to Moorings Way Infant School should feel so proud.
“With the leadership team, I’m committed to deepening our inclusive practice, so every child feels valued, belongs, and thrives as their best self.”