Oakridge Primary School, located in Staffordshire, has recently undergone an inspection that reaffirmed its status as an outstanding institution. The inspection, conducted on the 1st and 2nd of October 2024, evaluated various aspects of the school, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision, all of which received the highest rating of outstanding. This marks a continuation of the school's previous inspection grade, which was also outstanding.
The school is characterized by a nurturing environment where pupils thrive academically and personally. Students develop a profound understanding of their subjects and confidently use advanced vocabulary. They emerge as resilient and resourceful individuals, well-prepared for lifelong learning. The leadership team takes pride in fostering a culture of kindness and care, which is central to the school's ethos. Staff members are dedicated to supporting the growth of every student, creating strong relationships that enhance the overall school experience.
Pupil behavior is exemplary, with students actively embodying the school's values. They engage eagerly in lessons, maximizing their learning opportunities. Early years children quickly adapt to routines and demonstrate significant progress. The enthusiasm for learning among pupils is commendable, and they benefit from a wide range of opportunities that promote their personal development. Initiatives such as charity fundraising events allow students to cultivate a sense of social responsibility.
The school maintains high expectations for all pupils, with leaders and governors committed to continuous improvement. Professional development for staff is prioritized, enabling them to become experts in their fields. This dedication ensures that pupils receive the best possible education. A strong culture of reading is evident, with children in the nursery exposed to a diverse array of texts, songs, and rhymes. Teachers consistently use ambitious language, which contributes to the development of pupils' vocabulary throughout the curriculum.
The phonics curriculum is well-structured and effectively taught, allowing pupils to learn to read with confidence and fluency. Staff are adept at identifying when students may be falling behind and provide timely support to ensure all pupils progress. The curriculum is ambitious and thoughtfully designed, with clear expectations for the knowledge pupils need to succeed. Teachers' strong subject knowledge and effective assessment practices ensure that lessons focus on essential learning objectives.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive excellent support, with leaders collaborating closely with external agencies and parents to address individual needs. This tailored approach enables these pupils to make significant progress. The school's commitment to enhancing social interactions and personal development is evident, with older pupils mentoring younger ones in reading and well-being.
A variety of extracurricular activities enrich the curriculum, providing pupils with valuable experiences that enhance their learning. Events such as autumn camp nights foster a sense of community and exploration. The school's safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all students.
Overall, Oakridge Primary School exemplifies excellence in education, with a strong focus on academic achievement, personal development, and community engagement. The recent inspection highlights the school's unwavering commitment to providing a high-quality educational experience for all its pupils.
