Stedham Primary School celebrates new era following positive Ofsted report

Stedham Primary School is looking confidently towards the future following its latest Ofsted inspection, with inspectors recognising its nurturing environment, happy pupils, strong pastoral care and the positive impact of its new leadership.

Nestled in the heart of the South Downs National Park, surrounded by beautiful woodland and just a few minutes’ drive from Midhurst, Stedham is a very special village primary school. Small in size but big in ambition, it has been at the heart of the local community for generations.

Following a number of years of transition and uncertainty, the school is now enjoying a renewed sense of direction and optimism under Executive Headteacher Nick Tidey.

Nick leads both Stedham and Harting Primary Schools, which together form the Weald and Downland Schools Federation. Having previously led Harting Primary to become the brilliant school it is today, he is now bringing the same vision, energy and leadership to Stedham.

The latest Ofsted report, following an inspection on 29 September 2026, offers plenty of encouragement. Inspectors described pupils as happy and said they enjoy attending the school, highlighting its inclusive, caring community where everybody is known and valued.

Pastoral support was identified as a particular strength. Inspectors praised the positive relationships between children and staff, pupils’ good behaviour, and the calm, purposeful atmosphere in classrooms. They also recognised the broad curriculum, effective support for children with additional needs and the positive impact already being made by the new leadership team.

Nick Tidey said: “This is a brilliant new era for Stedham Primary School. We have wonderful children, fantastic staff and a school with so much potential. We are building on its existing strengths, developing new opportunities and making sure every child feels happy, supported and inspired to achieve their very best through living our vision of small classes; wide horizons.

For local parent Chris, whose child currently attends Stedham, the school’s nurturing environment and preparation for secondary education are particularly important. 

“Our experience of Stedham Primary School has been absolutely wonderful. We would give the school ten out of ten without hesitation. The beautiful setting, backing onto woodland, provides such a special environment for children to learn and grow. What has impressed us most is the confidence, happiness and independence of the pupils, particularly the older children as they prepare for secondary school."

Preparing children for life beyond primary school is a key part of the school’s ambition. Its aim is to ensure every pupil leaves with the academic foundations, confidence and independence to embrace the next stage of their education.

With dedicated staff, supportive families, strong leadership and a wonderful village setting, Stedham Primary is embracing an exciting new chapter.

A special village school with a renewed sense of purpose, a bright future and a very clear message: small classes; wide horizons.