Leaders are ambitious for all pupils. They ensure everyone is included in the life of the school. However, considerable changes in staffing since the last inspection have impacted the rate of improvement. As a result, the quality of education is not good. The curriculum in some subjects, including reading, remains underdeveloped. Pupils enjoy coming to school. They value their friendships. Pupils describe Countess Wear as their ‘second’ home’. They talk positively about the wider opportunities they receive, including the range of after-school clubs that are available. Staff form strong relationships with pupils. Most pupils in the school behave well. They are polite and demonstrate respect for others. At times, low-level disruption occurs when learning is not closely matched to pupils’ needs. When this happens, some pupils get distracted from their work. Pupils understand what bullying is. They say that it does not happen but agree that if it did, staff would act on it quickly. Leaders understand the importance of developing pupils as individuals. Pupils appreciate the forest school provision that provides opportunities to enhance their life skills, including their social interactions and confidence building.