Oakgrove School, located in Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, is an all-through academy that caters to students aged three to nineteen. The school has undergone significant changes since its last inspection, notably the expansion to include a primary phase that opened in 2016. The school is part of the Kingsbridge Educational Trust, which oversees its governance and has contributed to its rapid growth and development. The school has a diverse student body, with a significant proportion of pupils from minority ethnic backgrounds and a notable number who speak English as an additional language.
The recent inspection, conducted in June 2019, rated the overall effectiveness of the school as good, with specific areas of leadership and management, as well as personal development, behavior, and welfare, receiving outstanding ratings. The leadership team is characterized by a relentless determination to improve and maintain high standards across the school. They are well-informed about the school's strengths and areas for improvement, and they implement rigorous accountability measures to ensure that all staff are held to high expectations.
Pupils at Oakgrove School demonstrate above-average levels of attainment across all phases, supported by a broad and inspiring curriculum that meets both academic and pastoral needs. The quality of teaching is generally good, with teachers using effective strategies to engage students and promote deep thinking. The school places a strong emphasis on safeguarding, ensuring that pupils feel safe and well cared for. Attendance rates are consistently above the national average, and pupils exhibit excellent behavior, contributing to a positive learning environment.
The school has made significant strides in supporting disadvantaged pupils, who make above-average progress compared to their peers. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities also receive appropriate support, enabling them to make good progress. The personal development of pupils is a key focus, with effective careers education and guidance helping them make informed decisions about their future pathways.
In the early years provision, children are well-prepared for their future learning, benefiting from a stimulating environment and strong relationships with staff. The school has identified areas for further improvement, particularly in ensuring that the quality of teaching is consistently high across all subjects and year groups. Leaders are committed to embedding practices that will enhance the learning experience for all pupils, including those in the sixth form, where students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning.
Overall, Oakgrove School is a thriving educational institution that prioritizes the welfare and academic success of its pupils. The leadership team is dedicated to continuous improvement, and the school community is characterized by a strong sense of ambition and collaboration. The positive outcomes for pupils, combined with the effective governance and support from the Kingsbridge Educational Trust, position Oakgrove School as a strong educational provider in the region.
