Oasis Academy New Oak, located in Hengrove, Bristol, underwent an inspection on April 5 and 6, 2022, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has made significant progress since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good, while personal development was rated as outstanding.
Pupils at Oasis Academy New Oak enjoy attending the school, which fosters a nurturing environment. Attendance is high, and the school emphasizes the importance of positive relationships among pupils, parents, and staff. This focus on relationships contributes to a safe and happy atmosphere for students. The school promotes a culture of respect, where pupils understand and appreciate diversity, leading to strong inclusion practices. Pupils report that behavior is generally good, and instances of bullying are rare. They recognize that their peers have different needs and learning styles, which enhances their understanding and acceptance of one another.
The school provides extensive opportunities for pupils to develop both academically and personally. The curriculum is designed to engage students and includes a variety of rich experiences that allow them to explore their interests and talents. The reward systems in place motivate pupils to take on responsibilities, contributing to a positive school environment. Leaders have prioritized reading, ensuring that the curriculum includes carefully selected texts that expose pupils to quality literature. Early phonics instruction in Reception helps students develop strong reading skills, and teachers demonstrate good subject knowledge, facilitating effective learning.
While the curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, there are areas for improvement. The connection between early years learning and key stage one needs to be clearer to ensure a smooth transition for pupils. Assessment practices are effective in identifying knowledge gaps, particularly in mathematics, where pupils are not advanced to new content until they have mastered essential concepts. However, the consistency of teaching strategies across the school varies, which can hinder some pupils' ability to build knowledge and skills uniformly.
The school effectively adapts its curriculum for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that their individual needs are met. Leaders have identified core knowledge essential for these pupils and tailor instruction accordingly. Personal development opportunities are exceptional, with a focus on character building, competence, and community involvement. Pupils are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities, and initiatives like the university project help them understand the world of work and community service.
Governance at the school is strong, with leaders providing appropriate support and challenge to the staff. Staff morale is high, and they feel supported in their roles. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with leaders prioritizing pupil safety and working closely with external agencies. Staff are well-trained to recognize signs of abuse and follow established protocols to address concerns.
To improve further, the school must ensure that the curriculum is clearly linked across all key stages, allowing pupils to build on prior knowledge effectively. Consistent implementation of agreed teaching strategies is also necessary to enhance learning outcomes across all subjects. Overall, Oasis Academy New Oak demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive environment for all pupils.
