Oakfield Primary School, located in Scunthorpe, Lincolnshire, has undergone a recent inspection that highlights its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on the 5th and 6th of October 2022, and the school has shown significant improvement since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, leadership and management, and early years provision have all been rated as good, while personal development has been rated as outstanding.
The school fosters a strong sense of community, where staff and pupils care for one another. Parents and families engage warmly with staff, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Pupils report that bullying is rare, and when it does occur, staff address it promptly. The school promotes mental health awareness through initiatives like the ‘talk buddy’ system, encouraging pupils to share their concerns. The behavior of pupils is commendable, as they are polite, courteous, and move around the school in an orderly fashion. High expectations from leaders contribute to a positive learning environment.
In the early years, children quickly adapt to school routines and enjoy a variety of activities that promote collaboration. Parents of early years children express satisfaction with their children's progress. As pupils advance through the school, they develop critical thinking skills, discussing important topics such as equality and healthy relationships. They demonstrate a strong understanding of diverse faiths and family structures, reflecting the school’s commitment to inclusivity.
Pupils benefit from numerous opportunities that enhance their broader skills, including roles such as school librarians and play leaders. They participate in various trips and clubs that enrich their learning experiences across subjects. The curriculum is well-structured and ambitious, with leaders collaborating with subject experts to ensure that key knowledge is effectively mapped out. This ambitious approach begins in the early years, where foundational skills in subjects like mathematics are developed.
Subject leaders are knowledgeable and provide valuable training to teaching staff, helping them with lesson planning and resources. While assessments in reading and mathematics are effective, there is room for improvement in the assessment of some wider curriculum subjects. This gap can hinder teachers' understanding of long-term pupil learning.
Reading is prioritized within the curriculum, with a refurbished library and high-quality texts available for pupils. The teaching of reading is robust, with staff well-trained and equipped to support pupils who may be falling behind. Catch-up programs and interventions are in place, leading to strong progress in reading skills. The school ensures that reading materials reflect diverse characters and themes, which pupils appreciate.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are well-supported, with staff maintaining high aspirations for their learning. Leaders are adept at identifying needs and ensuring that appropriate resources are available for all pupils to access the curriculum.
The school excels in its personal development curriculum, preparing pupils for success in a diverse world. Leaders create meaningful opportunities for pupils to engage with individuals from various backgrounds, fostering an understanding of respect and tolerance. Special assemblies and fundraising initiatives further enhance pupils' awareness of diversity.
Governors demonstrate a strong understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement, actively challenging and supporting the school to maintain high educational standards. Staff express satisfaction with their work environment, appreciating the support they receive from leaders regarding workload and well-being.
The safeguarding arrangements at Oakfield Primary School are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to concerns promptly. Pupils are educated on online safety and how to navigate potentially uncomfortable situations in their community. Overall, Oakfield Primary School is a nurturing environment that prioritizes the well-being and development of its pupils while striving for continuous improvement in educational standards.
