Sonning is Outstanding
Sep 8 2025
The Keys Academy Trust is delighted to announce that following its recent Ofsted inspection on 8th & 9th July 2025 Sonning Church of England Primary School has been judged Outstanding in every category.
Inspectors praised the school as “a highly ambitious and nurturing school” where pupils “excel” and achieve “extremely well across the curriculum.” The report highlights Sonning’s exceptional standards in the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision.
Inspectors found that pupils “embody the values of love, courage, respect, aspiration and curiosity” and described Sonning as “a joyful place” where children behave with “habitual kindness” and show remarkable maturity. The curriculum was singled out for its ambition, rich opportunities for reading and debate, and inclusive approach that ensures pupils with special educational needs also thrive.
The report also praised the school’s role at the heart of the community, noting that parents “are rightly full of praise for the excellent start that pupils have here.”
Phil Sherwood, Headteacher said: "We are thrilled that inspectors captured the essence of our school so wholly. The vindication from Ofsted is welcomed, but it is not our driving force. Our drive was, and continues to be, to know that the children who attend our school become kind, confident and curious young people who are well-prepared for the next stages of their education and, in time, go out into the world and make it a better place. This report gives us confidence to continue with our plans to develop, enhance and grow our offer for all pupils, as well as support other schools."
Hester Wooller, CEO of The Keys Academy Trust, added: “This Outstanding outcome is testament to the tireless work of the Sonning team and the partnership between staff, governors, families, and the wider Trust. It reflects our shared commitment to ensuring every child receives the very best education and opportunities to flourish.”
The Ofsted report confirms Sonning as not only an exceptional school for its pupils today but also one with a “continued drive to keep improving” in the years ahead.
For more details, the full report is below:
