Shellingford Church of England Voluntary Aided School in Oxfordshire has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 8, 2022. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils express pride in their institution and enjoy attending. They feel safe and supported by the staff, who maintain respectful and courteous relationships with students. The leadership team has high expectations for all pupils, encouraging them to aspire to their best. The curriculum is well-structured, allowing children in early years and throughout the school to achieve commendable results.
The school effectively manages pupil behavior, ensuring consistency and fairness across all areas. Students demonstrate good behavior in lessons and during breaks, working diligently and collaborating well with peers. The school takes bullying seriously, addressing any incidents promptly and effectively. A variety of enrichment activities, including after-school clubs, provide pupils with opportunities to explore their interests and talents. The school emphasizes learning about diverse cultures and faiths, and pupils are encouraged to take on responsibilities, such as serving as reading ambassadors.
The curriculum is broad and ambitious, designed to introduce new concepts in a logical sequence. Teachers plan lessons that help pupils build knowledge systematically, and leaders have clearly outlined the essential knowledge expected at each educational stage. The early years curriculum is well-sequenced, detailing what children should know and be able to do at various points in Reception Year. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive the necessary support to thrive across subjects.
Pupils are encouraged to revisit and practice their learning, which aids retention. They achieve well in various subjects, showcasing impressive vocabulary and skills in discussions and projects. However, in some areas, such as design and technology, the school has yet to define the essential knowledge required for optimal pupil achievement. Leaders have implemented early reading programs in Reception, fostering a love for books and phonics. Reading materials are matched to pupils' abilities, and additional support is provided for those who struggle.
Teachers utilize assessments effectively to gauge pupil understanding, allowing for timely interventions when misunderstandings arise. The staff in the Reception class are particularly attuned to the capabilities of new students, ensuring that those with special educational needs are quickly identified and supported. High expectations for behavior contribute to an uninterrupted learning environment, with staff maintaining positive relationships with pupils, who respond well to guidance.
The school offers numerous opportunities for personal development, rooted in its Christian values. Pupils engage in decision-making processes through roles such as school council members, fostering a sense of responsibility. They embrace challenges and understand the importance of perseverance in their learning journey. Staff feel supported by leadership, which considers their workload and well-being, especially during busy periods.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance among staff. Regular training ensures that all personnel are equipped to maintain pupil safety and address any concerns promptly. The school conducts thorough pre-employment checks to ensure the safety of its staff.
While the school excels in many areas, there is a need for improvement in clearly defining the key knowledge pupils should acquire in certain subjects. This will help ensure that all students achieve their full potential. Overall, Shellingford Church of England School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
