St Kenelm’s Church of England VC School in Minster Lovell, Oxfordshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 1, 2023. The school is characterized by a welcoming and inclusive environment where every pupil is valued for their unique qualities. The ethos of the school is rooted in the parable of the lost sheep, ensuring that all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, receive the necessary support to thrive. Pupils express happiness and a sense of safety within the school, demonstrating kindness and friendliness, largely influenced by the positive examples set by the staff. The school has established a culture where pupils feel confident that any incidents of bullying will be addressed promptly and effectively.
The leadership at St Kenelm’s has high expectations for student learning, having designed a broad and ambitious curriculum that encompasses a variety of academic subjects alongside enrichment activities. Pupils show eagerness to learn and achieve commendable results. They take pride in participating in numerous sporting events and competitions, and they have access to various extracurricular clubs that nurture their talents and interests, such as handbells, karate, and gymnastics. The school also encourages community involvement, with pupils engaging in activities like singing for the elderly during Christmas.
The curriculum is meticulously planned, ensuring a logical progression from Reception through to Year 6, which helps build pupils' knowledge over time and prepares them for secondary education. The school is aware of the challenges some pupils may face and adapts tasks to meet individual needs, particularly for those with SEND, ensuring they receive effective support to develop their understanding confidently. Staff are well-trained to deliver the curriculum effectively, and regular recaps of previous learning help reinforce knowledge retention. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the systematic checking of pupil understanding in some subjects, which has led to some gaps in knowledge that need to be addressed.
Reading is a priority at St Kenelm’s, with staff employing their expertise to foster a love of reading among pupils. The phonics scheme is well-structured, and children begin learning to read from their first days in Reception, enjoying a variety of stories that promote early literacy skills. Targeted support is provided for pupils at the early stages of reading, helping them build confidence and fluency.
The school has effective systems in place to identify the needs of pupils with SEND, involving parents closely in the process and ensuring that these pupils have access to the same curriculum as their peers. Classrooms are calm and focused, with staff supporting pupils in managing their emotions, allowing for an uninterrupted learning environment.
Personal development is central to the school’s values, with pupils encouraged to contribute positively to society and respect diverse opinions. A range of experiences, including visits to art exhibitions and participation in theatre workshops, enriches their learning beyond the classroom. The school promotes equality and diversity throughout the curriculum, fostering responsible citizenship among pupils.
Governors play an active role in holding the school accountable for the quality of education, ensuring they are well-informed about the school’s strengths and areas for improvement. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, contributing to a safe learning environment for all pupils.
In summary, St Kenelm’s Church of England VC School continues to provide a good education, with a strong emphasis on inclusivity, personal development, and community engagement, while also recognizing the need for ongoing improvements in assessment practices to ensure all pupils achieve their full potential.
