Combe CofE Primary School, located in Witney, Oxfordshire, was inspected on July 6 and 7, 2022, and received an overall effectiveness rating of Good. The school has a strong reputation, having previously been rated Outstanding 14 years ago. The inspection noted that the school has maintained a positive environment where pupils and staff feel proud to be part of the community. The school emphasizes its values of community, compassion, and wisdom, which are reflected in the behavior and attitudes of the pupils.
Pupils engage in a variety of after-school clubs that promote outdoor learning, sports, creativity, and music. The leadership team has high expectations for both learning and behavior, fostering a culture where children take care of their environment and each other. Incidents of bullying are rare, and pupils feel safe, knowing that staff are available to help resolve any issues. The school encourages strong friendships and teaches pupils to take responsibility for themselves and their peers, contributing positively to the school and local community through various initiatives.
Parents express appreciation for the support and care provided by the staff, highlighting the dedication of the team in creating a nurturing learning environment. The school has made significant improvements in its curriculum, particularly in reading and personal, social, and emotional development. Leaders have set high ambitions for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they leave the school with confidence and readiness for future education.
The curriculum is well-structured, providing teachers with clear guidance on the knowledge and vocabulary pupils should learn. However, there are areas where the curriculum could be further refined to enhance learning outcomes. In some subjects, the key knowledge intended for pupils is not sufficiently detailed, which can hinder their learning potential. Leaders are actively working to address these gaps, and early indications show progress.
In the early years and subjects like mathematics and history, teachers effectively assess what pupils know and adapt their teaching accordingly. The school has a robust approach to identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance to thrive alongside their peers.
Phonics instruction begins in the Reception class, with staff well-trained to deliver the phonics program. However, there is a noted need for improvement in how phonics is taught in Key Stage 2, as some of the weakest readers do not achieve fluency as quickly as they could.
Pupils demonstrate good behavior and motivation in lessons, with minimal disruption to learning. They exhibit self-discipline throughout the school, contributing to a positive atmosphere. The school promotes inclusivity, with pupils valuing diversity and engaging in discussions about various topics, including healthy relationships and environmental care.
Governors play an active role in supporting and challenging school leaders, ensuring resources are used effectively to enhance educational quality. Staff feel supported in managing their workload and well-being. The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with staff trained to recognize and address concerns promptly. Pupils are educated on safety, including online safety, and understand the importance of healthy relationships.
To improve further, the school needs to refine its curriculum in certain subjects to ensure all staff are aligned on the essential knowledge pupils should acquire. Additionally, enhancing the approach to early reading in Key Stage 2 is crucial to support the development of confident and fluent readers.
