Shield Row is smaller than the average-sized primary school. The proportion of disadvantaged pupils (those eligible for support through the pupil premium) is above average. The pupil premium is additional funding for those pupils eligible for free school meals and those children who are looked after by the local authority. The vast majority of pupils are of White British heritage. The proportion of pupils supported through school action is well above that found nationally. The proportion of pupils supported at school action plus or with a statement of special educational needs is above the national figure. The school meets the government’s current floor standard, which sets the minimum expectations for pupils’ attainment and progress in English and mathematics. A nursery class was added to the school in September 2012. The early years now operates as an Early Years Foundation Stage unit across Nursery and Reception. The school holds a number of awards. These include the National Anti-Bullying accreditation and the bronze International Schools award. New leaders for the early years and special educational needs have taken up post since the time of the last inspection. A new Chair of the Governing Body has recently been appointed.