Charles Dickens Primary School has once again been recognised as a beacon of excellence in Southwark, having taken “effective action to maintain the standards identified at the previous inspection,” according to Ofsted’s latest report.

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The ungraded inspection, which took place on 24–25 June 2025, confirmed that the school continues to offer an exceptional education, five years on from its previous Outstanding rating.

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Inspectors praised the school for giving pupils “a positive experience that goes well beyond the ordinary,” noting that pupils “live and breathe the school’s values.” These values – academic success, creativity, and personal development – are not just words on paper but are “at the heart of everything” pupils do.

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A Curriculum of Ambition and Excellence

At the core of the school’s continued success is a “high-quality and ambitious curriculum” that has been “recognised as excellent practice by the Department for Education, both nationally and internationally.” The curriculum is deeply rooted in the latest educational research and offers “rich and demanding learning opportunities” for all pupils, including those with SEND.

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Teachers were described as highly skilled, with “strong subject knowledge” and a clear ability to help pupils build on what they’ve previously learned. Inspectors noted that this leads to “very strong learning outcomes,” with pupils producing “high-quality work across different subjects.”

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A Place Where Pupils Thrive

The school’s culture of inclusion was particularly highlighted, with over 35 free lunchtime and after-school clubs helping to ensure “inclusion [is] ingrained in the school’s culture.” Participation is celebrated through the school’s ‘Greatness Award,’ fostering a sense of pride and belonging among pupils.

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Inspectors also recognised the school’s thoughtful approach to character education. Pupils take part in dedicated well-being lessons, assemblies, and a rich programme of trips and visits designed to develop both academic and social-emotional skills. Pupils were described as discussing sensitive topics such as online safety, diversity and British values with “maturity.”

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One pupil told inspectors: “I love coming to school because I can be myself and I do not have to hide anything.”

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Leading with Vision

Now part of the Charter Schools Educational Trust, the school is led by Headteacher Michael Eggleton and overseen by CEO Cassandra Buchanan and a board chaired by Jonathan Slater. Inspectors praised the leadership team for “meticulously maintaining strategic oversight of the school” and commended staff for their dedication. Teachers spoke positively about their workload and the support they receive from school leaders.

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The school’s safeguarding arrangements were found to be effective, and pupils’ behaviour was described as “exemplary.”

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Continuing to Set the Standard

Though Ofsted no longer assigns overall grades under the new inspection framework, the report makes clear that Charles Dickens Primary remains one of the capital’s leading schools. This was the school’s first routine inspection since the COVID-19 pandemic, and it has emerged not only resilient but stronger.

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With a reputation for “impeccable behaviour,” “exceptional outcomes,” and an unwavering commitment to inclusion and creativity, Charles Dickens Primary School stands as a shining example of what primary education can and should be.

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Read the full report here.