Kingfisher School, located in Abingdon, Oxfordshire, is recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 19 and 20, 2024. Under the leadership of headteacher Lorraine Wilson, the school is part of The Propeller Academy Trust, which provides additional governance and support. The trust is overseen by CEO Tom Pegler and a board of trustees chaired by Jane Edwards. The school is dedicated to creating a supportive environment for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that all students feel happy and safe. Parents express high satisfaction with their children's experiences, highlighting the positive atmosphere and the dedication of the staff.
The school maintains high expectations for its pupils, focusing on developing effective communication skills. Staff are well-trained to support students in expressing their thoughts and emotions, fostering independence and self-management. The calm and purposeful behavior observed throughout the school reflects the supportive environment cultivated by the staff. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, catering for the diverse needs of pupils through various learning pathways. This includes specialized support for those with speech, language, and communication needs. The curriculum is broken down into manageable steps, allowing pupils to progress at their own pace.
In the sixth form, students benefit from a varied curriculum that prepares them for a range of qualifications. Subject leadership is strong in many areas, although some subjects are still developing, which affects the oversight of pupils' learning in those areas. Staff collaborate with specialists to set individual targets for pupils, ensuring that they have ample opportunities to develop their knowledge and skills. The school places a strong emphasis on reading, with well-trained staff delivering effective phonics lessons that help pupils become confident readers.
Kingfisher School also prioritizes the broader development of its pupils, aiming to prepare them to be active and integral members of the community. Personal, social, health, and economic education is well-planned, and the school offers various activities to nurture pupils' talents and interests. Community involvement is encouraged, with opportunities for pupils to engage in local initiatives. The school also emphasizes safety, providing education on staying safe, including online safety.
Students in the sixth form achieve well, with a curriculum designed to develop life skills. Practical experiences, such as cooking and participating in The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme, promote independence and resilience. The school provides clear guidance on future education and employment opportunities, encouraging students to explore enterprise activities.
Attendance is closely monitored, and the school works with families to address any issues promptly. Pupils demonstrate respect and kindness towards one another, supported by individual plans that help them understand their emotions. The sensory garden offers a calming space for relaxation and sensory exploration.
Staff express strong support for the school, appreciating the teamwork fostered by leadership and the consideration given to their workload. The governance structure is effective, with trustees fulfilling their roles diligently. Safeguarding arrangements are robust, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
While the school excels in many areas, it recognizes the need to further develop assessment systems in certain subjects to ensure a comprehensive understanding of pupils' learning. Additionally, enhancing subject leadership in some areas will provide better oversight of pupil progress. Overall, Kingfisher School continues to provide a nurturing and effective educational experience for its pupils.
