Hornton Primary School, located in the village of Hornton, Banbury, Oxfordshire, has recently undergone an inspection on the 21st and 22nd of November 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school has been rated as good, with specific areas such as the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, leadership and management, and early years provision also receiving a good rating. Notably, personal development has been recognized as outstanding. The headteacher, Wendy Whitehouse, leads the school, which is part of The Warriner Multi Academy Trust, overseen by CEO Annabel Kay and a board of trustees chaired by Duncan Raper.
Pupils at Hornton Primary School take pride in their school and strive to meet the high expectations set for their education. They demonstrate good behaviour and focus during lessons, contributing to their overall achievement across the curriculum. The school fosters a friendly and caring environment, with parents expressing appreciation for the community spirit. Pupils feel safe and secure, forming warm friendships that transcend year groups, creating a family-like atmosphere. They engage in activities that promote empathy and social responsibility, such as fundraising for charitable causes and participating in intergenerational events.
The curriculum at Hornton Primary School is broad and ambitious, developed in collaboration with the trust. It is designed to ensure that pupils acquire the necessary knowledge, skills, and vocabulary in a coherent manner. Teachers are aware of the individual needs of their pupils, particularly those with special educational needs and disabilities, and provide tailored support. The school emphasizes clear presentation of new concepts, helping pupils make connections with prior knowledge, although there are instances where clearer guidance could enhance understanding.
Engaging activities are integral to the learning process, particularly in the early years, where staff focus on developing communication skills through well-structured tasks. The commitment to mathematics is evident, with targeted interventions ensuring that all pupils achieve high standards. The learning environment is calm and purposeful, with positive attitudes towards school reflected in good attendance.
Reading is prioritized from the start of Reception, with a well-implemented phonics scheme that supports pupils in becoming fluent readers. Older pupils express enthusiasm for reading, sharing their favorite books and authors. The personal development curriculum is exceptional, equipping pupils with essential knowledge about safety and internet use. The school values diversity and promotes respect among pupils, who actively reject unkindness and discrimination.
Leadership at Hornton Primary School is characterized by ambition and commitment. Staff receive effective training to enhance their practice, and there is a strong sense of value and motivation among the team. Governors and trustees play a diligent role in school improvement, with systems in place to monitor quality and set challenging targets. Parents appreciate the communication between home and school, with opportunities for involvement in school events.
The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in enhancing teachers' subject knowledge to ensure consistent implementation of the curriculum across all subjects. Addressing these gaps will further support pupils in achieving their full potential. Overall, Hornton Primary School provides a nurturing and effective educational environment, fostering both academic success and personal growth among its pupils.
