The Oak Tree Academy has shown significant improvement since its last inspection, moving from a status of requiring improvement to being rated as good in all areas. The school provides a safe and structured environment where clear rules and expectations are established, leading to improved behavior among pupils. Most students behave well, and there is a general consensus among staff and students that behavior has improved. Although some instances of misbehavior still occur, the staff handle these situations fairly, contributing to a calm and orderly atmosphere throughout the school day. The relationships between pupils and staff are positive, with mutual respect evident in their interactions.
Bullying, which was previously a concern, is now infrequent, and the school has effective measures in place to address any incidents swiftly. The curriculum is well-structured, particularly in reading, writing, and mathematics, where pupils are making strong progress. Recent years have seen an increase in both academic standards and attendance rates. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including gardening clubs and sports, which are well-received by students. Additional support sessions provided by teachers are popular and help pupils catch up on their studies.
The leadership team has made commendable strides in improving the school. The curriculum is now better planned, especially in English and mathematics, where knowledge is sequenced effectively to build understanding. Teachers utilize engaging materials to enhance learning, particularly in English, where they incorporate interesting books to stimulate pupils' interest. However, there are concerns regarding the time allocated to subjects like science and geography in Year 6, which may hinder pupils' readiness for secondary education.
Reading instruction is prioritized, with a systematic phonics program in place for early years. Teachers are well-trained and provide daily reading support, ensuring that most children develop a solid grasp of phonics by the end of key stage one. Despite these strengths, some foundation subjects, such as art and design, lack coherent planning, resulting in disconnected activities that do not effectively support skill development. Leaders are aware of these issues and are actively working to enhance curriculum planning in these areas.
The school fosters a positive learning environment, with transformed behavior and focused classrooms. Teaching is rarely interrupted, and staff support pupils in learning from their mistakes. Enrichment activities, including educational trips and career exploration weeks, contribute to a well-rounded education, helping pupils develop positive attitudes and an appreciation for life in modern Britain.
The early years provision is particularly strong, with a well-planned curriculum that engages children and promotes good progress. Teachers effectively teach essential skills, including hygiene practices, and encourage parental involvement in their children's learning.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff trained to recognize and report any concerns regarding pupil welfare. Leaders maintain detailed records and collaborate with external agencies to ensure the safety of vulnerable pupils. The school has implemented security measures to enhance the safety of the premises.
To further improve, the school needs to strengthen the quality of education in foundation subjects and ensure that all national curriculum content is covered adequately. Leaders should focus on providing a more coherent and sequenced curriculum in subjects like art and design and technology, ensuring that pupils receive sufficient practice to develop proficiency. Adjustments to the curriculum implementation in Year 6 are also necessary to ensure balanced progress across all subjects. Overall, The Oak Tree Academy is on a positive trajectory, with effective leadership and a commitment to continuous improvement.
