Oxted School, located in Surrey, has undergone a recent inspection that highlighted its overall effectiveness as good. The school has made significant improvements since its previous inspection, where it was rated as requiring improvement. The leadership and staff maintain high expectations for all pupils, fostering a strong academic environment alongside a focus on personal development. The school prioritizes the physical and mental well-being of its students, creating a supportive atmosphere where pupils feel safe and valued.
The learning environment at Oxted School is calm and orderly, contributing to effective learning. During the inspection, there was no evidence of low-level disruption, and pupils are comfortable reporting any incidents of poor behavior, knowing they will be addressed promptly. The sixth-form students serve as excellent role models, benefiting from opportunities that promote both academic growth and personal development. They are actively involved in the school community, enhancing the overall school culture.
Oxted School offers a broad curriculum that reflects the needs and interests of its pupils. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, ensuring continuity from primary to secondary education. The school has established strong links with partner primary schools, which aids in this transition. While the curriculum is generally well-implemented, there is some variability in teaching practices across subjects. Leaders are aware of this and are working to refine the curriculum further, sharing best practices among staff.
Teachers at Oxted School demonstrate strong subject knowledge and effectively use assessment to gauge pupil understanding. The school has made commendable efforts to improve attendance and reduce exclusions, with a dedicated attendance team achieving notable success. Disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs receive additional support, allowing them to perform well alongside their peers. The SEND coordinator and her team have worked diligently to enhance staff awareness and improve support quality for students with additional needs.
The school has a robust approach to supporting disadvantaged pupils, regularly reviewing strategies to ensure their effectiveness. Although there remains a gap in progress compared to their peers, this gap is narrowing. The sixth-form provision is particularly effective, balancing support and challenge to prepare students for their future endeavors. Literacy development is prioritized across the curriculum, with a strong emphasis on reading, especially in the early years.
Personal development is supported through various programs, including assemblies and life skills education, where pupils learn about relationships, diversity, and personal safety. The careers curriculum is well-structured, providing pupils with essential information to make informed decisions about their futures. The school invites former pupils to share their career experiences, enriching the students' understanding of various pathways.
Leadership at Oxted School is strong, with governors and trustees working collaboratively to ensure a high-quality education. Staff generally feel supported, although a small number express concerns about workload management. The local governing board is actively engaged, maintaining a good understanding of the school's operations and benefiting from the support of the trust.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with comprehensive checks and training in place to ensure pupil safety. Students feel secure and are aware of whom to approach with concerns. Overall, Oxted School is committed to continuous improvement, with clear plans to enhance the consistency of curriculum implementation across all subjects, ensuring that all pupils achieve their full potential.
