Stockham Primary School, located in Wantage, Oxfordshire, has been recognized for its outstanding performance during the inspection conducted on March 28-29, 2019. The school has demonstrated exceptional effectiveness in leadership and management, teaching, personal development, behavior, welfare, and pupil outcomes. The headteacher's strong leadership has been pivotal in fostering a culture of excellence, with a clear vision encapsulated in the school’s motto, Soaring high. This ethos resonates throughout the school community, garnering praise from parents, staff, and pupils alike.
The leadership team, including capable subject leaders, has effectively collaborated to enhance the curriculum, ensuring it is well-planned and implemented. Pupils are acquiring a broad range of subject-specific knowledge and skills, which they apply adeptly. The school’s performance in key stage two national tests is notably above average, with most pupils, including the most able, achieving their potential. In key stage one, pupils are making significant progress from lower-than-average starting points, demonstrating the school’s commitment to inclusive education.
Teaching at Stockham Primary is characterized as outstanding, particularly in writing and mathematics. Teachers utilize their subject expertise to introduce complex concepts, fostering a stimulating learning environment. Pupils exhibit high levels of motivation and engagement, enjoying reading and accessing a variety of rich texts. The tailored support provided to pupils with additional needs has been effective, ensuring that all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, are making commendable progress.
Governance at the school is highly effective, with governors actively involved in promoting the school’s inclusive ethos. They hold leaders accountable and ensure that the school’s vision is shared among all stakeholders. The school’s commitment to personal development is evident, with a strong focus on pupils’ well-being, resilience, and physical fitness. The early years provision is also outstanding, providing children with a solid foundation for their future education.
The school has successfully implemented a comprehensive personal development program that addresses various risks, including those associated with social media. Pupils demonstrate exemplary behavior, showing respect for one another and their teachers. The school’s inclusive approach ensures that all pupils feel safe and supported, contributing to high attendance rates and low levels of persistent absence.
In terms of outcomes, pupils achieve high standards across subjects, particularly in science, history, geography, English, and mathematics. The school’s results in key stage two assessments have consistently been above average, with a significant proportion of pupils reaching age-related expectations. The progress of disadvantaged pupils is also commendable, with tailored support helping them overcome barriers to learning.
The early years setting has been refined under new leadership, providing children with engaging activities that promote their development in mathematics, reading, and writing. The environment is harmonious and orderly, allowing children to thrive. The teaching of phonics is particularly effective, with children making rapid progress in early reading skills.
Overall, Stockham Primary School exemplifies excellence in education, with a strong commitment to fostering a nurturing and aspirational environment for all pupils. The school’s achievements reflect the dedication of its leadership, staff, and the supportive community surrounding it.
