Oakfield Junior School, located in Fetcham, Leatherhead, Surrey, has recently undergone an inspection that highlighted its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on June 6 and 7, 2023, and the school has maintained its previous inspection grade of good. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, and leadership and management were all rated as good, while personal development received an outstanding rating.
Pupils at Oakfield Junior School are reported to be happy and engaged in their learning. They attend school regularly and demonstrate kindness and respect towards one another, fostering a welcoming community. The school’s values, known as the 5 C’s, are well understood by the pupils and are reflected in their behavior throughout the school. The positive relationships between staff and pupils contribute to a safe and supportive environment where students feel well cared for.
The leadership team at Oakfield Junior School is ambitious regarding the achievements of all pupils. The curriculum is designed to be broad and inclusive, catering for the needs of all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Pupils are making good progress in their learning, particularly in reading, where many express confidence and enthusiasm for their class novels and independent reading. The school has implemented effective support for pupils who require additional help to become fluent readers, ensuring that those with SEND also achieve well.
The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including competitions, assemblies, and clubs, encouraging pupils to participate actively. Opportunities for leadership and responsibility are abundant, with pupils taking on roles such as buddies and members of the school council. The inclusivity of these roles ensures that all pupils, including those with SEND, can engage meaningfully in school life.
While the school excels in many areas, there are aspects that require improvement. Although the curriculum is well-structured, some subjects lack clarity regarding the specific knowledge pupils need to acquire and the sequence in which it should be taught. This can hinder teachers' ability to identify gaps in learning and address misconceptions promptly. In mathematics, pupils demonstrate confidence and problem-solving skills, but in certain foundation subjects, there is less clarity about the knowledge required, which affects pupils' ability to recall what they have learned.
The personal development program at Oakfield Junior School is highly effective, with leaders ensuring that it is thoughtfully integrated throughout the school. Pupils articulate their learning about respectful relationships and celebrating diversity with confidence. The school also prioritizes extracurricular opportunities, ensuring that all pupils, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds and those with SEND, can participate fully.
Safeguarding measures at the school are robust, with a strong culture of safety established. Staff are well-trained to recognize and manage risks, particularly for pupils with SEND. Pupils are educated on how to keep themselves safe, including online safety, and are aware of the procedures for reporting concerns.
In summary, Oakfield Junior School is a supportive and engaging environment where pupils thrive academically and personally. The leadership team is committed to continuous improvement, ensuring that all pupils receive a high-quality education and the support they need to succeed. While there are areas for development, particularly in curriculum clarity and knowledge sequencing, the overall effectiveness of the school remains strong.
