Longfields Primary and Nursery School in Bicester, Oxfordshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 16 and 17 February 2022. The school is characterized by a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere where pupils enjoy learning and playing together. The core values of respect, honesty, and perseverance are well understood by the students, fostering a sense of community. Older pupils take pride in mentoring younger students during break times, which enhances the school’s supportive environment.
The leadership team at Longfields is committed to the success of all pupils, including those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs and disabilities. The school offers enriching experiences, such as partnerships with local and national theatre companies, which contribute to a well-rounded education. Pupils are encouraged to take on leadership roles, such as play leaders and school councillors, and they actively participate in fundraising activities, demonstrating their engagement and responsibility.
Behavior at Longfields is commendable, with pupils displaying politeness and good manners. The learning environment is calm and orderly, promoting mutual respect and fairness. Pupils feel safe due to the attentive care provided by staff, and incidents of bullying are rare. When bullying does occur, pupils are confident that staff will address the issue promptly.
The curriculum at Longfields is ambitious and designed to support high achievement among all pupils. It is structured to build on prior knowledge, with effective displays in the Reception Year aiding in the understanding of concepts like the passage of time. Teachers possess strong subject knowledge and are clear about learning objectives, ensuring that pupils revisit previous learning regularly. This approach helps deepen their understanding over time, particularly in subjects like mathematics, where pupils practice recalling multiplication facts and learn the appropriate vocabulary to articulate their reasoning.
Reading is prioritized, with a well-structured curriculum that begins in the Nursery. The reading program is tailored to reflect the diverse interests and backgrounds of the pupils. Children develop phonics knowledge early on, and those who struggle with reading receive timely support to help them catch up. The school also emphasizes pupils’ wider development, encouraging participation in local sporting events and teaching strategies for maintaining mental and physical health.
Staff at Longfields maintain high expectations for pupil behavior, which contributes to a focused learning environment. The school effectively identifies and supports pupils with special educational needs, collaborating with external agencies and families to ensure these pupils receive the necessary assistance.
Governors are actively involved in the school’s operations, seeking information on various aspects of school life, including the curriculum and safeguarding. This engagement helps them understand the school’s strengths and areas for improvement. Leaders balance their aspirations for school improvement with the well-being of staff, which is appreciated by the teaching team.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with staff receiving regular training to recognize and report concerns regarding pupil welfare. The school fosters good relationships with parents and external agencies, ensuring that families receive additional support when needed. The curriculum also educates pupils on safety, including internet safety and the importance of protecting personal information.
While Longfields Primary and Nursery School is performing well, there are areas for improvement. In some foundation subjects, particularly in key stage two, teachers need to enhance their assessment practices to better gauge pupils’ prior knowledge and adapt the curriculum accordingly. This will ensure that all pupils can build their knowledge and skills effectively across all subjects. Overall, Longfields continues to provide a high-quality education and remains a good school.
