Oxbridge Lane Primary School, located in Stockton-on-Tees, has undergone significant improvements since its previous inspection, moving from a grade of Requires Improvement to an overall effectiveness rating of Good. The inspection, conducted on 15 and 16 September 2021, highlighted the school as a safe and welcoming environment where pupils feel happy and valued. The school community emphasizes high expectations for behavior, supported by a recently implemented behavior policy that is consistently applied by staff. This has led to a reduction in incidents of poor behavior, creating calm and purposeful classrooms conducive to learning.
Pupils express enjoyment in attending school, describing it as a kind and caring place. The school’s rules, which promote safety, respect, and readiness, are well understood by students. Recognition initiatives, such as the Recognition Walls in classrooms, celebrate pupils who meet the school's high expectations. Instances of bullying are reported to be rare, and when they occur, staff address them promptly and effectively.
The curriculum at Oxbridge Lane Primary is designed to celebrate diversity and difference, with pupils engaging enthusiastically in topics such as Black History Month. They demonstrate a strong understanding of influential figures and express how these studies inspire them. The positive relationships between pupils and adults in the school encourage students to aspire to achieve their best.
Leadership changes since the last inspection have resulted in improved behavior and heightened expectations for academic achievement. The leadership team has made rapid adjustments to the curriculum to align with these ambitions, utilizing assessment effectively to identify and address gaps in knowledge, particularly those arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. The curriculum is tailored to the needs of the pupils, informed by feedback from parents and students, ensuring relevance and engagement.
Staff training and development have been prioritized, with high morale reported among teachers who feel valued and supported in their roles. The curriculum in subjects like mathematics and physical education is well-structured, allowing pupils to build on prior knowledge effectively. However, challenges remain in areas such as music and history, where the sequencing of learning has not been as clearly defined, leading to weaker understanding among pupils.
Reading and phonics instruction is a key focus, with early teaching beginning in Nursery. Leaders ensure that reading materials are appropriately matched to pupils' phonetic knowledge, contributing to an increase in the number of confident readers by the time they reach Year 3. Daily reading sessions foster a love for literature among students, who express enthusiasm for the texts they encounter.
The school is proactive in supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring early identification and tailored resources to facilitate their learning alongside peers. While pupils generally exhibit positive attitudes towards learning, persistent absenteeism remains a concern, with some students missing significant portions of the curriculum. Leaders are committed to addressing this issue by identifying at-risk pupils early and collaborating with families to improve attendance.
Oxbridge Lane Primary School offers a rich array of extracurricular opportunities, including annual trips and visits to places of worship, which enhance pupils' understanding of different cultures and beliefs. The personal development curriculum prepares students for life in modern Britain, fostering acceptance and understanding of diversity. The early years provision is characterized by a strong focus on well-being and independence, with a thoughtfully planned curriculum that builds on prior learning.
Governors are actively engaged in monitoring the school's progress, providing oversight and support to ensure the effectiveness of leadership actions. The safeguarding arrangements are robust, with a strong culture of vigilance and support for pupils' safety and well-being. Overall, Oxbridge Lane Primary School demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement and the holistic development of its pupils.
