Oldfield Primary School, located in Greenford, Middlesex, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 15 and 16, 2022. The school fosters a positive learning environment where pupils strive to achieve their best, embodying the school's vision of pride through achievement. Students are engaged in their lessons and take pride in their work, which contributes to their overall success across various subjects. The high expectations set by the adults in the school are met with clear behavioral guidelines, resulting in well-conducted pupils who are kind and supportive of one another.
Collaboration among pupils is encouraged, with students working together effectively, sharing resources, and discussing their learning. Many students express that their friendships are a highlight of their school experience. The school prioritizes safety, educating pupils about bullying and ensuring that any incidents are addressed promptly. Students feel secure and trust the adults in the school, knowing they can voice their concerns.
The leadership at Oldfield Primary School is ambitious, particularly regarding literacy. The school emphasizes the importance of fluent reading as a foundation for effective learning across the curriculum. The phonics program is well-implemented, with regular reading practice using books that align with the sounds pupils have learned. Support is provided for those who may be falling behind, although there are instances where the pronunciation of sounds by adults could be improved for better clarity.
The curriculum is thoughtfully designed to meet national standards while incorporating local context to enhance learning. For example, history lessons include discussions about the Polish War Memorial, allowing pupils to connect with their community's history. The curriculum is structured to build knowledge progressively, preparing students for future learning. In early years, children engage in activities that lay the groundwork for later subjects, such as observing caterpillars transform into butterflies, which introduces them to life cycles.
Teachers effectively use assessments to gauge pupils' understanding and identify learning gaps, particularly those resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. Adjustments to the curriculum have been made to address these gaps, especially in mathematics, where leaders have recognized areas needing reinforcement. However, there are occasions when teachers do not fully verify that pupils have grasped essential concepts, which can hinder their ability to progress in their learning.
The school is attentive to the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they receive the necessary support to thrive academically. Additionally, the broader development of pupils is a priority, with opportunities for community involvement, such as performances for local seniors and charity initiatives. These experiences enrich pupils' education and foster a sense of responsibility.
Staff well-being is also a focus for school leaders, who regularly check in on their workload to maintain a supportive work environment. The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with staff being vigilant about the welfare of pupils and collaborating with external agencies when necessary. Pupils are educated on various safety topics, including internet safety and awareness of potential dangers.
While the school demonstrates many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Leaders should ensure that assessment practices consistently verify pupils' understanding of key concepts, preparing them for future learning challenges. Additionally, enhancing the clarity of phonics instruction will support pupils in their reading development. Overall, Oldfield Primary School continues to provide a solid educational experience for its students, with a commitment to ongoing improvement and excellence in teaching and learning.
