Oasis Academy Ryelands, located in South Norwood, London, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 7 and 8, 2023. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils take pride in their learning experiences. Leaders at the academy maintain high aspirations for all students and have developed an ambitious curriculum that is designed to support both academic and personal growth. Teachers are dedicated to providing the necessary support and challenges to help pupils succeed, ensuring that every student feels valued and respected.
The school emphasizes enrichment activities that enhance the curriculum, such as visits to local parks for science and art lessons, as well as trips to museums in London. These experiences contribute to a well-rounded education and help students connect their learning to the real world. Additionally, leaders prioritize personal development by offering pupils opportunities to take on leadership roles, such as voting for their school’s representatives and participating in well-being initiatives.
Behaviour in the school is commendable, with pupils demonstrating calmness and respect during lessons. The school has established clear expectations for behaviour, and pupils are motivated to earn badges for displaying positive habits. Teachers are proactive in addressing any instances of bullying or behavioural issues, ensuring a safe and supportive learning environment.
The curriculum at Oasis Academy Ryelands is ambitious, with leaders identifying key knowledge, skills, and vocabulary that pupils should acquire. Teachers effectively utilize resources, including technology, to deepen pupils' understanding. However, while the curricular plans are well thought out, there are inconsistencies in their implementation across some subjects, which leaders are aware of and are working to address.
Reading is a significant focus at the school, with pupils actively engaging in phonics lessons and developing a strong foundation in literacy. Teachers encourage a love of reading by providing a diverse range of literature and ensuring that reading materials are closely aligned with pupils' phonics knowledge. This approach fosters a culture of reading that extends throughout the school.
Mathematical learning is also prioritized, with early years pupils engaging in activities that develop their understanding of mathematical concepts. Teachers create a language-rich environment that supports vocabulary development and consistently reinforce mathematical understanding across all year groups.
The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they have access to the same curriculum as their peers. Staff are trained to identify and address the needs of these pupils, providing additional support and resources as necessary.
Leaders are committed to enhancing pupils' character development and regularly communicate their values and expectations. Initiatives such as careers weeks help pupils explore various professions and encourage them to aspire to their goals. The school environment is characterized by a focus on learning, with pupils typically remaining engaged and not disrupting their peers.
While the school has many strengths, leaders recognize the need for improvement in the consistent implementation of new curriculum plans to prevent gaps in pupils' knowledge. They are dedicated to ensuring that all aspects of the curriculum are fully realized, allowing pupils to build on their subject-specific skills effectively.
Overall, Oasis Academy Ryelands continues to provide a good education, with a strong emphasis on personal development, academic achievement, and a supportive school community. The commitment of leaders and teachers to fostering a positive learning environment is evident, and the school is well-positioned to address areas for growth in the future.
