Ofsted conducted a short inspection of Oaklands School on 16 July 2019, following its previous outstanding judgment in May 2015. The inspection confirmed that the school continues to provide an outstanding quality of education. The leadership team, under Mr. Neil Oxley, has fostered strong relationships within the school community and has implemented a robust action plan for ongoing improvement. The governing body has been strengthened with new members who bring diverse experiences, and parents expressed high satisfaction with the school, noting significant positive impacts on their children's academic and personal development.
The school embodies its motto, treating each pupil as an individual while fostering a supportive community. During the inspection, pupils demonstrated collaboration and enthusiasm, particularly evident in their participation in the summer production of Shrek the Musical. Parents highlighted the school's focus on teaching social skills and respect, contributing to a strong sense of community. The safeguarding culture is robust, with effective policies and procedures in place. The designated safeguarding lead works closely with the headteacher to ensure all necessary actions are taken, and staff training is comprehensive, enabling staff to respond promptly to any concerns.
The inspection explored whether teachers maintain high expectations for pupil learning and achievement. This was confirmed, as pupils displayed happiness and confidence in their learning environment. The curriculum is engaging, integrating core subjects with creative options, and lessons are designed to inspire enthusiasm. While most subjects provide opportunities for extended writing, a few areas were identified where this could be improved. The outcomes for pupils at the end of key stage four and in the sixth form have been consistently strong, with all Year 11 pupils achieving nationally recognized qualifications.
The school places equal importance on pupils' well-being and personal development. A new sexual health and relationships curriculum is set to be introduced, enhancing the existing program. Various activities have been implemented to promote safety awareness, and the emotional literacy support program, known as ELSA, has received positive feedback from pupils and parents. The school has been recognized with the national Well-Being Award for Schools, reflecting its commitment to supporting pupils' holistic development.
Pupils' behavior is exemplary, contributing to a calm and orderly environment. They are respectful and engage positively with visitors. The school promotes enjoyable activities during breaks, and incidents of bullying are rare. The behavior policy is consistently applied, ensuring clear expectations for all. Attendance rates are higher than the national average for similar schools, supported by positive strategies that encourage regular attendance.
The inspection concluded with recommendations for the school to enhance opportunities for pupils to develop extended writing skills across various subjects. Overall, Oaklands School demonstrates a commitment to excellence in education, fostering a nurturing environment that supports both academic and personal growth for all its pupils.
