St Edburg’s Church of England (VA) School in Bicester, Oxfordshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 17 and 18 February 2022. The school fosters a welcoming community where pupils express happiness in belonging. They appreciate the supportive relationships with staff, who are described as helpful and caring, contributing to a safe environment. Pupils enjoy their time with friends and demonstrate good behavior, which creates a calm and orderly atmosphere conducive to learning. The school has established clear channels for pupils to voice concerns, including issues related to bullying, which is addressed promptly by senior leaders.
The leadership team maintains high expectations for all pupils, reflected in the ambitious curriculum designed to support academic and personal achievement. This includes a focus on pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), ensuring they are well-prepared for future learning stages. The curriculum is engaging and structured, particularly in mathematics, where teachers emphasize the importance of recalling essential number facts. However, in a few subjects, the sequencing of knowledge could be clearer to enhance learning outcomes.
Teachers actively monitor pupils' retention of essential knowledge before introducing more complex concepts, which has led to strong academic performance across the school. This includes effective support for disadvantaged pupils and those with SEND, who achieve well due to tailored learning plans and skilled support staff. The school prioritizes reading, with a consistent phonics approach starting in the early years. Children engage enthusiastically in phonics lessons, and older pupils express a love for reading, supported by a well-resourced library and guidance from a knowledgeable librarian.
Pupils exhibit positive attitudes towards learning, demonstrating diligence and focus in their work. The early years curriculum balances independent and collaborative tasks, minimizing disruptions during lessons. The school emphasizes the all-round development of pupils, teaching them about democracy, human rights, and cultural diversity through various activities and assemblies.
Staff well-being is a priority for leaders, who manage workloads effectively and ensure a supportive environment for teachers and support staff. The safeguarding arrangements are robust, with leaders and governors fulfilling their responsibilities diligently. Staff are well-trained to recognize and respond to potential risks, ensuring that pupils and their families receive appropriate support when needed.
While the school excels in many areas, there is room for improvement in the sequencing of the curriculum in a small number of subjects. Leaders are encouraged to refine curriculum plans to enhance the clarity of learning progression across all subjects. This will help ensure that pupils achieve their full potential in every area of their education.
Overall, St Edburg’s Church of England School continues to provide a high-quality education, characterized by strong leadership, a supportive community, and a commitment to the academic and personal growth of all pupils. The school is well-positioned to build on its successes and address areas for development, ensuring that it remains a good school in the future.
