St Thomas More Catholic Primary School in Kidlington, Oxfordshire, has recently undergone an ungraded inspection, with the outcome confirming that the school maintains its overall judgement of good. The evidence collected during the inspection suggests that the school could potentially achieve an outstanding rating if a graded inspection were conducted. The headteacher, Julieann Exley, leads the school, which is part of The Pope Francis Multi Academy Company, overseen by CEO Fraser Long and a board of trustees chaired by Paul Concannon.
The school fosters a warm and inclusive environment where pupils feel safe and happy. It promotes a family-like atmosphere, instilling a strong sense of belonging among students. The school is committed to ensuring that every pupil reaches their full potential, with particular attention given to those with special educational needs and disabilities. These pupils receive excellent support from knowledgeable staff, enabling them to thrive academically and socially.
Behaviour among pupils is exemplary, with students demonstrating respect and care for one another. Older pupils take on leadership roles, mentoring younger children and engaging in activities that promote community spirit. The school offers a wide range of extracurricular opportunities, including clubs and community performances, encouraging pupils to support local and national charities and understand the importance of helping others.
The curriculum at St Thomas More is ambitious and well-structured, beginning in the Nursery and designed to help children build knowledge progressively. The curriculum is broad and balanced, allowing pupils to develop critical thinking skills and apply their knowledge in various subjects. Early years education is particularly strong, with children engaging in play-based learning that fosters language, communication, and numeracy skills. Staff are adept at identifying and supporting children with special educational needs from an early age.
Reading is prioritized within the school, with pupils expressing enthusiasm for books and the stories shared by teachers. The reading curriculum is designed to enhance fluency and confidence, with staff trained to deliver phonics instruction effectively. Continuous assessment ensures that pupils who struggle receive timely support, including those who are new to English.
Attendance is a key focus, with staff actively encouraging pupils to attend school regularly. The engaging curriculum contributes to high levels of pupil engagement and positive behaviour in lessons. The personal development of pupils is exceptional, with a strong emphasis on inclusivity and diversity. Pupils celebrate various cultures and understand the importance of respect and tolerance, linking these values to fundamental British principles.
Leadership at the school is ambitious, with a clear understanding of the community's context. Families express high levels of satisfaction with the school's commitment to education and the support provided by staff. Governance is effective, with trustees maintaining a clear overview of the school's performance and ensuring compliance with statutory duties.
The safeguarding arrangements in place are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and their welfare is prioritized. This inspection marks the first ungraded evaluation since the school was last judged to be good in September 2018. Overall, St Thomas More Catholic Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive community for all its pupils.
