Oliver Tomkins Church of England Junior School, located in Swindon, Wiltshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on October 12 and 13, 2021. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils are cheerful, polite, and enthusiastic about their learning. They feel safe and report that bullying is rare, with confidence that any issues would be addressed promptly by the staff, including the headteacher. The behavior of pupils is commendable both in lessons and around the school.
The leadership team, including staff and governors, maintains high aspirations for all pupils, particularly for those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs and disabilities. The school emphasizes inclusivity and acceptance, which are integral to its ethos. Pupils understand the importance of education for their future, with aspirations that reflect their ambitions, such as wanting to become scientists to make a positive impact on the world.
Parental support for the school is strong, with appreciation for the clear communication from the headteacher and school leaders. Parents have expressed gratitude for the support provided during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly regarding remote learning, stating that the school could not have done more to assist them. The commitment of school leaders to the welfare of both parents and pupils is evident.
The school excels in the teaching of early reading, with a well-organized phonics program that is effectively implemented by trained staff. New pupils' reading skills are assessed quickly, and additional support is provided to those who need it, enabling weaker readers to catch up. Reading materials are carefully matched to pupils' phonics skills, fostering confidence and success in reading. The school also prioritizes developing a love of reading, with high-quality books available and initiatives to encourage parental involvement in reading at home.
Curriculum leaders have identified the essential skills and knowledge for pupils, with careful consideration given to the sequencing of this knowledge in various subjects. For instance, in geography, Year 5 pupils build on their previous learning about rivers from Year 4, leading to better retention of knowledge. However, this level of consistency is not yet evident across all subjects.
Pupils show enthusiasm for mathematics and are eager to share their learning experiences. Many can confidently explain their reasoning when solving problems. Nonetheless, there are instances where teachers do not break down new concepts into manageable steps, which can hinder some pupils' understanding.
The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they have access to the full curriculum and receive appropriate assistance in lessons. These pupils demonstrate resilience and independence in their learning.
Pupils generally behave well, with low-level disruption not tolerated. The school prioritizes personal development and well-being, providing effective guidance and support for mental health. Pupils value this support, including initiatives for young carers. A variety of extracurricular activities enriches the learning experience, and pupils gain an understanding of British values through participation in the school council.
Leaders and governors maintain high expectations while being mindful of staff workload and well-being. During remote education, they ensured that staff had adequate time to plan and teach lessons, and staff appreciate the measures taken to protect them from bullying and harassment.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with a strong commitment from leaders and governors to keep pupils safe. They are aware of local risks and work closely with external agencies to ensure pupil safety, maintaining a focus on safeguarding throughout the pandemic.
While the school has made significant progress, there are areas for improvement. Leaders need to ensure that teachers utilize the curriculum's progression and sequencing effectively, particularly in mathematics, to help pupils learn new concepts more quickly. Identifying the small steps and precise knowledge required for successful learning will enhance the educational experience for all pupils.
