St Michael's Celebrates Positive Ofsted Outcome

The Keys Academy Trust is delighted to celebrate the successful Ofsted inspection outcome for St Michael’s Church of England Primary School, Sandhurst, following its inspection on 15 September 2026. Inspectors found the school to be meeting the expected standard across all areas, with Early Years recognised as a particular strength, achieving the higher "Strong Standard" judgement.

The inspection highlighted the school's welcoming culture, strong educational foundations and commitment to ensuring every child can flourish. Ofsted recognised that children in Reception "get off to a very positive start in this school" and praised the highly effective curriculum and ambitious expectations that help children become "very well prepared for their next stage in education."

Inspectors also identified several strengths that reflect the school's commitment to providing an excellent education. They noted that "attendance is a strength of this school" and highlighted that attendance rates are above those seen nationally, reflecting the positive culture and high expectations established by leaders.

Importantly, the inspection also recognised the benefits that come from being part of a strong and supportive multi-academy trust. Ofsted specifically highlighted that "effective support and challenge from within the trust helps leaders to plan" and noted that staff value the professional learning opportunities made available through The Keys.

These findings reflect one of the key strengths of the The Keys family of schools: the ability to combine the unique character and identity of each school with the collective expertise, professional development opportunities and school improvement support available across the Trust. The inspection recognised that governance is effective, leaders are well supported, and staff benefit from access to wider trust-wide professional learning.

This inspection holds additional significance as St Michael's is the fourth trust school to be inspected since Ofsted introduced its renewed inspection framework in November 2025. The outcome adds to a growing body of evidence demonstrating the strength of education, leadership and governance across the Trust's family of schools.

Reflecting on the outcome, The Keys is proud of the dedication shown by the school's leaders, staff, governors, pupils and wider community. Their collective commitment has created a caring and ambitious environment where children achieve well, develop confidence and enjoy coming to school every day. 

You can read the full report here: