North Kidlington Primary School, located in Kidlington, Oxfordshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 8 and 9, 2024. The school is characterized by a positive and nurturing environment where pupils feel well cared for and enjoy their learning experiences. The staff's commitment to building strong relationships with students and their families is evident, as they greet pupils warmly at the school gate each morning. The school promotes values of kindness towards oneself, others, and the environment, fostering a sense of community among pupils.
Behavior at the school is commendable, with established routines and high expectations set by adults from the early years. Pupils demonstrate enthusiasm in lessons and collaborate effectively, which contributes to their development as confident learners. The school offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including trips, recorder lessons, and various clubs, which enrich the pupils' educational experience. Notably, the biannual dance festival held in a professional theatre is a highlight for many students, showcasing their talents and fostering a sense of achievement.
The curriculum at North Kidlington Primary School is ambitious and well-structured, with a strong emphasis on reading. Daily story time and whole-class reading activities expose pupils to new vocabulary and instill a love for reading. The school has made significant improvements in its approach to early reading, with staff trained to teach phonics effectively. This targeted instruction ensures that all pupils develop strong reading skills quickly and confidently.
In addition to reading, the school places importance on mathematics, with a focus on exploring number concepts from the start of Reception. Pupils are encouraged to share their ideas and explain their problem-solving methods, which enhances their confidence and understanding. The wider curriculum is designed to meet the needs and interests of pupils, allowing them to revisit essential knowledge and skills regularly. Teachers employ effective questioning techniques to assess understanding and adapt learning to support pupils with special educational needs and disabilities.
While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement. Some pupils' written work in subjects outside of English does not consistently reflect the high standards they achieve in their reading and writing. This discrepancy indicates that there is room for growth in developing writing skills across the curriculum. The school is aware of this and is working to ensure that pupils' writing abilities are enhanced in all subjects.
Pupil well-being is a priority, with initiatives in place to teach social skills and promote emotional health. Nurture groups help students develop confidence in expressing their feelings and taking turns. The school encourages democratic participation, allowing pupils to vote on various decisions, which fosters a sense of responsibility and pride in their roles.
Attendance rates are high, supported by effective home-school partnerships that assist families facing challenges. Staff at North Kidlington Primary School are dedicated and collaborative, valuing the support they receive from leadership regarding their well-being and workload. The safeguarding measures in place are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
Overall, North Kidlington Primary School continues to provide a good education, characterized by a supportive atmosphere, a strong curriculum, and a commitment to pupil well-being. The school is well-positioned to build on its successes and address areas for improvement, particularly in enhancing writing skills across the wider curriculum.
