Oake, Bradford and Nynehead VC Primary School, located in Taunton, Somerset, has been rated as a good school following its inspection in February 2019. The interim headteacher has implemented significant improvements since her arrival, reversing a recent decline in pupil attainment and progress. As a result, pupils are now making stronger progress, leading to improved academic outcomes. The leadership team, including governors, is highly ambitious for the school and its pupils, demonstrating a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. Middle leaders are confident in their roles, although there are still inconsistencies in teachers' subject knowledge and assessment practices that need to be addressed.
Parents and carers generally express positive views about the school, appreciating the nurturing environment created by the staff. Pupil attendance has improved and is now in line with the national average. The curriculum effectively prepares pupils for life in modern Britain, and the school’s extra-curricular activities are a notable strength, providing a variety of opportunities for pupils to engage outside the classroom.
The quality of teaching, learning, and assessment is also rated as good. The teaching of phonics is effective, and pupils show enthusiasm for reading, making strong progress. Teachers maintain high expectations, although there are instances where the most able pupils are not sufficiently challenged in writing and certain areas of mathematics. Writing is an area of enjoyment for pupils, but weaknesses in spelling and grammar skills hinder the progress of the most able students. Behaviour in lessons and around the school is commendable, with pupils demonstrating politeness and pride in their work.
In the early years, effective teaching ensures that children start their educational journey positively, making strong progress and being well-prepared for Year 1. Safeguarding measures are robust, contributing to a safe and caring learning environment for all pupils.
To further improve, the school needs to enhance the effectiveness of leadership and management by embedding the role of middle leaders to provide better support to the headteacher and improve teachers' subject knowledge. Additionally, there is a need to focus on helping pupils apply their spelling, grammar, and punctuation skills more accurately in their writing and to ensure that the most able pupils are adequately challenged in both writing and mathematical problem-solving.
The inspection highlighted that while leadership and management are good, there is room for growth in the consistency of teaching practices across the school. The interim headteacher has established clear expectations for teaching, leading to engaging lessons and good progress for pupils. However, some inconsistencies remain, particularly in providing the most able pupils with the challenges they need to excel.
Overall, Oake, Bradford and Nynehead VC Primary School is a good school with a strong foundation for further improvement. The commitment of the leadership team, the positive relationships among staff and pupils, and the supportive environment created for learning all contribute to the school’s success. With continued focus on addressing the identified areas for improvement, the school is well-positioned to enhance its effectiveness and outcomes for all pupils.
