Oakridge Parochial School, located in Gloucestershire, continues to demonstrate its status as a good school following its inspection on 20 October 2022. The school fosters a happy and nurturing community where pupils thrive under the guidance of teachers who maintain high expectations for both learning and behavior. This supportive environment encourages pupils to achieve well and develop positive attitudes towards their education. They exhibit commendable behavior in class and throughout the school, collaborating effectively with one another and providing mutual support.
Pupils at Oakridge Parochial School benefit from a diverse range of experiences that contribute to their overall development. Notably, they expressed enthusiasm for meeting author Rob Biddulph at the Cheltenham Literary Festival, highlighting their engagement with literature. Many pupils identify as creative and artistic, enjoying outdoor learning opportunities and actively participating in school life through roles such as school council members. The school has a low incidence of bullying, with pupils confident that any issues will be promptly addressed by staff. Parents overwhelmingly support the school, appreciating the individualized attention their children receive and describing Oakridge as a hidden gem.
The leadership team possesses a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. They are committed to providing a rich and ambitious curriculum that meets the needs of all pupils. Recent curriculum redevelopment has ensured comprehensive coverage of the national curriculum, particularly for mixed-aged classes. The curriculum is well-structured, and staff have received training that enhances their subject knowledge. Collaboration between subject leaders and Reception staff ensures that young learners build a solid foundation across all areas of learning. However, leaders recognize that assessment practices in some subjects require further development, as some subject leaders lack a detailed understanding of pupil progress.
Leaders are proactive in enhancing the curriculum, particularly in mathematics, where they have broken down learning into manageable steps and guided teachers in adapting lessons to meet diverse pupil needs. While pupils express confidence in their mathematical abilities, some seek additional challenges. The implementation of the curriculum varies across subjects, with certain areas not deepening pupils' understanding of key concepts, which can hinder their overall knowledge retention.
Reading is a strong focus at Oakridge, with effective phonics instruction enabling pupils to develop reading skills quickly. The school promotes a culture of reading, encouraging pupils to explore a wide range of literature, including contemporary and classical works. Staff support pupils in selecting engaging books that expand their vocabulary and foster a love for reading.
The school environment is calm and conducive to learning, with high expectations for pupil behavior. Teachers effectively identify and support pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they thrive in the nurturing atmosphere. Staff report that school leaders are supportive and considerate of their workload, fostering a collaborative and approachable culture.
The governing body maintains an accurate view of the school, providing a balance of support and challenge to school leaders. Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential concerns. The school ensures that all staff are vetted to work with children, and both pupils and parents feel secure in the school environment.
To further improve, the school must enhance assessment practices in subjects beyond English and mathematics to ensure a comprehensive understanding of pupil progress. Additionally, teachers should focus on providing learning experiences that build on pupils' existing knowledge, allowing for deeper understanding and retention over time.
