Thomas Reade Primary School, located in Abingdon, Oxfordshire, was inspected on March 19 and 20, 2024. The school has been rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. This inspection follows a previous outstanding rating from 2011, marking a significant period since the last graded inspection due to legal exemptions from routine inspections until November 2020.
Pupils at Thomas Reade Primary School exhibit pride in their school, demonstrating friendliness and a welcoming attitude. They actively ensure that all students feel included and supported during social interactions. The positive behaviour among pupils is characterized by respect and care for one another. The school’s motto and values play a crucial role in shaping the educational experience, with pupils frequently referencing these principles in their interactions. Assemblies are a highlight, where students engage enthusiastically, enjoying the communal experience of singing.
The school offers a broad range of opportunities that are well recognized by pupils and their families. Performances involving all year groups are particularly anticipated, allowing every pupil to participate in various roles, fostering a sense of accomplishment and confidence. This approach aligns with the school’s commitment to developing each pupil’s character.
The curriculum at Thomas Reade Primary School is ambitious and designed to promote deep understanding over time. Pupils enjoy their learning experiences, which are structured to help them connect ideas across different subjects. The new leadership team has built upon existing strengths while identifying areas for improvement. The school’s values and motto have fostered a sense of community, contributing to a supportive culture.
Teachers regularly assess pupils’ knowledge, although there are areas where this could be more precise. This assessment informs additional support for pupils as needed. Continuous professional development ensures that teachers possess strong subject knowledge, which is evident across the curriculum. A focus on vocabulary enhances learning for all pupils, enabling them to apply prior knowledge effectively.
The curriculum is thoughtfully designed, with learning progression from Reception to Year 6, particularly in reading and writing, which have been prioritized. However, some subjects are still in the early stages of improvement, and leaders are actively working to ensure that all subjects are taught effectively.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive well-structured support, with staff well-informed about individual needs. Collaboration between leaders, staff, and parents ensures that these pupils receive timely assistance, leading to positive outcomes.
Reading is emphasized throughout the school, with inviting reading areas encouraging pupils to read for pleasure. The school promotes a love of reading from an early age, with nursery children engaging in songs and rhymes that lay the foundation for their reading skills. Targeted support is provided for those who struggle with reading, resulting in high achievement in standardized tests.
The school maintains good attendance, supported by clear expectations and proactive measures to address any issues. The culture of positive behaviour is reinforced through regular monitoring and analysis, ensuring a conducive learning environment.
Safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. The school is aware of areas needing improvement, particularly in embedding the curriculum across all subjects. Continued refinement of staff knowledge and expertise is essential to fully realize the ambitious curriculum.
Overall, Thomas Reade Primary School provides a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, fostering both academic and personal growth while maintaining a strong sense of community.