Oxclose Primary Academy, located in Washington, Tyne and Wear, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on April 5 and 6, 2022. The school provides a nurturing environment where pupils feel happy and safe. Leaders greet students and parents warmly each morning, fostering a strong sense of community. Older pupils take on responsibilities as play buddies, helping younger students engage in play, which promotes cooperation and kindness among all pupils, including those with significant physical needs. The school has established routines that ensure inclusivity in activities, allowing every pupil to participate according to their abilities.
The academy has a specially resourced provision for pupils with physical and medical needs, ensuring that those with special educational needs and disabilities are well integrated into the school community. Leaders maintain high expectations for all pupils, and staff provide effective support to help them meet these expectations. Celebrating individual successes is a key aspect of the school culture. Parents and pupils report that bullying is not an issue, and the school actively teaches respect and equality, reinforcing its motto of Forward together: together we succeed.
In terms of educational quality, leaders have prioritized the development of the curriculum, particularly in early reading, where phonics is taught effectively. Staff are well-trained to deliver the phonics program consistently, ensuring that all pupils, including those with additional needs, receive the support they need to become proficient readers. Daily share a story sessions engage pupils with lively storytelling, enhancing their love for reading.
The curriculum is organized to allow pupils to build knowledge over time, with clear expectations in subjects like mathematics, science, and geography. However, the planning in some wider curriculum subjects has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, and leaders are aware of the need to clarify the important knowledge pupils should acquire in these areas. Teachers effectively use questioning to identify gaps in pupils' knowledge, and tools like sticky knowledge mats and vocabulary grids help reinforce learning. However, assessment practices in foundation subjects need to be aligned more closely with the ambitious curriculum.
The personal, social, and health education curriculum equips pupils with essential life skills, covering topics such as healthy relationships and online safety. The school promotes understanding of diversity and resilience through carefully selected stories, fostering respect for cultural differences and a sense of responsibility among pupils.
Leaders are committed to serving the local community and providing children with a strong foundation for their future. Parents appreciate the strong communication between the school and families, and staff feel supported by senior leaders, contributing to a positive working environment. The school benefits from external support for staff professional development, and governors are actively involved in driving improvement.
Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with leaders ensuring that pupils are taught how to keep themselves safe. The school collaborates with external agencies to support vulnerable pupils and maintains meticulous records to monitor well-being. Staff receive regular training to recognize warning signs, fostering a culture of vigilance.
While the school has made significant progress, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the planning and sequencing of the curriculum in some subjects and the alignment of assessment practices in foundation subjects. Leaders are already taking steps to address these issues, demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement and high standards of education for all pupils.
