Otterbourne Church of England Primary School is an average-sized primary school located in Winchester, Hampshire. The school serves primary-aged pupils from the local area and nearby villages. The school has a diverse curriculum that promotes academic and personal development, and it has been recognized for its outstanding performance in various areas. The recent inspection, conducted in March 2015, rated the school as outstanding in all categories, including leadership and management, behavior and safety of pupils, quality of teaching, achievement of pupils, and early years provision.
The headteacher is highly ambitious and dedicated to pursuing excellence in every aspect of the school. This commitment is reflected in the rigorous training provided for staff, which has led to significant improvements in pupil achievement since the previous inspection. The leadership team, including governors, is supportive and ensures that all groups of pupils achieve exceptionally well through thorough monitoring of teaching quality. The school has a high proportion of pupils making outstanding progress in English and mathematics, consistently placing it in the top 20 percent of schools nationally.
The governing body has developed its skills and maintains an accurate understanding of the school's performance. They regularly challenge school leaders and hold them accountable for pupil outcomes. The effective use of additional government funding has enabled eligible pupils to achieve at least as well as their peers, and often better. Parents express high levels of satisfaction with the education their children receive and the support available.
The school offers a wide range of subjects and topics that engage pupils and foster a love for learning. The curriculum is designed to promote pupils' spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development, with regular community trips that enrich their educational experience. Behavior in the school is exemplary, with pupils demonstrating kindness and respect towards one another. Attendance rates are significantly higher than those in most other schools, indicating that pupils enjoy their time at school.
Teaching quality is outstanding, with well-planned and challenging tasks that engage all pupils. Staff members are proud to work at the school and are supportive of the leadership team. The early years provision is particularly strong, providing children with an excellent start to their education through effective resources and engaging activities.
The inspection team observed lessons, listened to pupils read, and engaged with various stakeholders, including parents and staff. The school meets the government's current floor standards, ensuring that it provides a high-quality education for all pupils. The school is committed to continuous improvement and is working with local partner schools to enhance assessment practices in light of changes to the National Curriculum.
In summary, Otterbourne Church of England Primary School is an outstanding institution that excels in providing a high-quality education for its pupils. The leadership team, staff, and governors work collaboratively to ensure that all pupils achieve their full potential in a safe and nurturing environment. The school’s commitment to excellence is evident in its impressive academic results, strong community ties, and the positive experiences of its pupils.
