Oak Lodge Primary School, located in West Wickham, Kent, has been recognized for its effective action in maintaining the standards established during its previous inspection. The school, led by headteacher Diane Lowton and part of the Mosaic Schools Learning Trust, has created a positive and engaging learning environment for its pupils. The school community is characterized by high attendance rates and a strong commitment to personal development, with pupils demonstrating respect, resilience, and resourcefulness.
Pupils at Oak Lodge Primary School enjoy their educational experience, which is reflected in their positive attitudes and sensible behavior. The school emphasizes high expectations across all areas of learning, starting from the early years. This approach fosters a culture of hard work and a desire to succeed among students. The school has a robust anti-bullying policy, ensuring that any incidents are addressed swiftly, contributing to a safe and supportive atmosphere for all pupils.
The curriculum at Oak Lodge is designed to align with the national standards, providing a broad and balanced education for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school has established clear learning objectives, particularly in the early years, to ensure that children develop a strong foundation for future academic success. Reading is prioritized from the outset, with effective phonics instruction enabling most pupils to read confidently and write accurately by the end of Year 6.
While the curriculum is well-structured in many subjects, there are areas, such as design and technology, history, and music, where the school is still refining its approach to ensure that all pupils acquire the necessary knowledge and skills. Leaders are actively working to enhance the curriculum in these subjects and have plans in place to monitor the effectiveness of these changes.
Teachers receive ongoing training to improve their subject knowledge and teaching practices, which helps them address gaps in pupils' understanding. However, there are instances where teachers could better utilize their knowledge of individual pupils' learning to facilitate deeper understanding. The school maintains a calm and focused learning environment, with staff effectively managing behavior and promoting positive relationships among students.
The school is committed to developing well-rounded individuals with strong skills, offering a variety of extracurricular activities and opportunities for leadership. Pupils engage in community service projects, such as fundraising and environmental initiatives, which foster a sense of responsibility and connection to their local community. The school also provides numerous after-school activities that allow pupils to explore their interests and talents.
Leadership at Oak Lodge is characterized by a clear understanding of strategic roles, with leaders working collaboratively to uphold high standards. They prioritize staff well-being and provide support to help manage workloads effectively. Staff members express appreciation for the leadership team's efforts in creating a supportive work environment.
The school's safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring that pupils feel safe and secure. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the assessment of pupils' learning in foundation subjects. The school aims to implement more regular checks on understanding to address any gaps in knowledge. Overall, Oak Lodge Primary School continues to build on its strengths while striving for further enhancements in its educational offerings.
