Clanfield Church of England Primary School, located in Bampton, Oxfordshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 3, 2022. The school fosters a harmonious environment where staff, pupils, and parents feel like part of a close-knit community. Pupils express a strong sense of belonging and familiarity with one another, which is supported by the school's vision inspired by the Parable of the Sower, emphasizing growth and flourishing for every child.
The atmosphere at Clanfield is characterized by happiness and joy, with pupils showing enthusiasm for learning and exploration in the school's well-designed grounds. They engage in creative projects, such as collaborating with local sustainability groups, which enhance their imagination and skills. The leadership has raised expectations for pupil achievement, and students understand the importance of hard work. Classroom behavior is commendable, particularly among older pupils, contributing to a calm learning environment where bullying is rare, and pupils feel safe.
Pupils at Clanfield have opportunities to create lasting memories through various leadership roles and themed projects that broaden their character development. For instance, older students were recently tasked with opening an American diner to celebrate Thanksgiving. The school has undergone significant transformation since the headteacher's arrival in 2019, following a challenging period. The headteacher implemented sweeping reforms, appointed a new staff team, and sought additional training to strengthen governance, resulting in positive feedback from parents.
The curriculum at Clanfield is bespoke, ambitious, and engaging, with leaders ensuring that the pandemic did not hinder its development. Teachers are adapting to the new curriculum, and early signs of success are evident. Leaders are focused on enhancing staff subject knowledge to effectively deliver the curriculum, particularly in mathematics, where clear teaching methods help pupils grasp concepts securely. However, in some subjects, tasks may prioritize enjoyment over learning, which can hinder the development of detailed knowledge.
Handwriting quality varies among pupils, with some struggling to achieve fluency, which affects their ability to express ideas in writing. The pandemic has exacerbated this issue, and while leaders have introduced a new handwriting program, consistent high expectations for presentation are still needed. Historically, phonics and reading outcomes have been strong, and a new phonics program has been implemented to further improve these areas. Staff are well-trained, and daily sessions support pupils who need additional help. The school promotes a love of reading, providing a literature-rich environment with diverse books that reflect modern Britain.
The school is committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they receive the necessary care and attention. Teachers encourage pupils to think ethically and understand their role in effecting change, fostering respect and tolerance. Governance has improved significantly, with governors actively challenging leaders to maintain high educational standards.
Staff morale is high, with teachers feeling valued and supported through ongoing professional development. Safeguarding is a top priority, with effective arrangements in place to ensure pupil safety. Leaders are vigilant in their approach, maintaining detailed records and engaging with external agencies when necessary. Overall, Clanfield Church of England Primary School continues to provide a nurturing and effective educational environment, with areas identified for further improvement, particularly in curriculum delivery and handwriting standards.
