Oakmoor School, located in Bordon, Hampshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 19 and 20 October 2021. The school is characterized by a strong sense of community, with pupils describing it as a family where they feel well supported and cared for by the staff. The pastoral team is particularly praised for their responsiveness to students' concerns, fostering an environment where pupils feel safe and valued. The school promotes a culture of respect and courtesy, with pupils adhering to high behavioral expectations and enjoying a disruption-free learning environment.
The curriculum at Oakmoor School is well-structured and thoughtfully sequenced, ensuring that it builds on the knowledge acquired in primary education. Leaders have identified key themes across subjects, such as identity and civil rights, which are revisited to deepen understanding. While subjects like mathematics and English are well-developed, some areas, including history and design technology, are still in the early stages of curriculum development. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and collaborate effectively to create engaging lessons that reinforce prior learning. Vocabulary development is emphasized, with teachers ensuring that pupils understand and remember important terms.
Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is commendable, with staff actively working to meet their needs and help them keep pace with their peers. However, there is a noted need for improvement in encouraging wider reading among pupils, as many do not engage with texts outside of their subjects or for pleasure, which can limit their writing skills.
The school has made significant strides since its last inspection, with an increasing number of parents expressing satisfaction and viewing Oakmoor as their preferred choice. The leadership team has benefited from support within the trust, enhancing the quality of education and staff well-being. High expectations for behavior are consistently communicated, and pupils respond positively, showing enthusiasm for their lessons. Experience days are well-received, covering relevant topics that contribute to pupils' broader development.
Safeguarding measures at Oakmoor School are effective, with all staff sharing responsibility for pupil safety. The safeguarding team is well-known and collaborates closely with teachers to support at-risk students. Staff are regularly updated on safeguarding issues, and there is a clear protocol for addressing concerns, particularly regarding online bullying.
To further enhance the school's performance, leaders are encouraged to promote wider reading among pupils and ensure that curriculum plans across all subjects clearly outline expectations for knowledge and skills at various stages. This will help pupils achieve their full potential and prepare them for future academic challenges. Overall, Oakmoor School continues to provide a supportive and effective educational environment, with a commitment to ongoing improvement and the well-being of its students.
