Langford Village Community Primary School in Bicester, Oxfordshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 7 and 8, 2023. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils feel safe, happy, and encouraged to be their best selves. The ethos of the school is encapsulated in the acronym STARS, which stands for Safe, Thoughtful, Adventurous, Resilient, and Smiling. This framework promotes a culture of kindness and respect among students, and the adults in the school are dedicated to nurturing and supporting each child.
The school has high expectations for behavior, and instances of unkindness or bullying are rare. When such incidents do occur, they are addressed promptly and effectively, ensuring that all students feel supported. The inclusive nature of the school is evident, as pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are actively engaged in a wide range of activities, benefiting from a newly designed curriculum that emphasizes diverse experiences and knowledge.
The leadership team has implemented an ambitious curriculum that clearly outlines the knowledge and skills pupils are expected to acquire by the end of Year 6. This curriculum is broad and well-structured, allowing pupils to make connections between different subjects and retain what they learn. The early years' educators are particularly skilled in facilitating learning for the youngest children, laying a strong foundation for their educational journey.
Despite the overall positive outcomes, the school acknowledges that historically, some pupils have not achieved their full potential in writing and mathematics by the end of key stage two. Leaders are aware of existing gaps in knowledge and are actively working to address these through targeted support for teachers and pupils. This includes enhancing the teaching of the curriculum and ensuring that assessments effectively identify areas where pupils may need additional help.
The impact of these improvements is particularly noticeable in the early years and key stage one, where pupils engage in thoughtfully designed activities that promote exploration and understanding of mathematical concepts. The school has also prioritized reading, with staff trained to deliver phonics instruction effectively. This focus has resulted in pupils developing strong reading skills, characterized by increasing accuracy and confidence.
Pupils enjoy a well-rounded education that includes learning about their local community, different cultures, and the importance of equality. They participate in various extracurricular activities, such as sports and charity events, which foster a sense of pride and responsibility. The newly formed leadership team is committed to providing the best possible education, and despite the increased workload due to recent changes, staff feel supported and motivated.
Safeguarding measures at the school are robust, ensuring that pupils are safe and well cared for. Staff are trained to recognize signs of abuse and know how to respond appropriately. The school maintains strong relationships with families and other agencies to provide necessary support for pupils and their families.
In summary, Langford Village Community Primary School is a good school that prioritizes the well-being and education of its pupils. The leadership team is focused on continuous improvement, and while there are areas for development, the school is well-positioned to support its students in achieving their full potential. The commitment to fostering a safe and inclusive environment, combined with a strong curriculum, ensures that pupils are well-prepared for their future educational endeavors.
