Finstock Church of England Primary School, located in Oxfordshire, has recently undergone an inspection on January 23 and 24, 2024, and has been rated as outstanding in all areas of evaluation. The school, which is part of the Mill Academy Trust, is led by headteacher Leanne Dixon and overseen by CEO Wendy Hemmingsley and chair of trustees Claire King. The school serves children aged four to eleven and has a total enrollment of 26 pupils.
The inspection highlighted the exceptional quality of education provided at Finstock, noting that pupils arrive each day with enthusiasm and a strong desire to learn. The school’s vision emphasizes the importance of both academic achievement and pastoral care, ensuring that every child is well-prepared for future success. Pupils demonstrate exemplary behavior in both classroom settings and during playtime, showcasing a deep understanding of kindness and friendship. The school fosters a familial atmosphere where older students serve as role models for younger peers, creating a supportive community.
The curriculum at Finstock is meticulously designed to ensure that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, receive a comprehensive education. The school offers a wide range of enrichment opportunities, allowing pupils to engage in various competitions and activities that promote ecological awareness and environmental stewardship. Through initiatives such as forest school activities and habitat creation for local wildlife, students develop a profound connection to the natural world.
Finstock’s commitment to excellence is evident in its well-structured curriculum, which clearly outlines the knowledge and skills pupils are expected to acquire. The curriculum is designed to reinforce key concepts, enabling pupils to retain information effectively. Staff members are proactive in identifying and supporting pupils who may need additional assistance, ensuring that no child falls behind in their learning journey. This approach has resulted in pupils becoming confident and articulate learners who achieve remarkable academic success.
The early years provision at Finstock is particularly noteworthy, with a curriculum that focuses on developing language and communication skills. Staff members create a nurturing environment where children quickly adapt to routines and feel secure. Learning activities are thoughtfully crafted to ignite curiosity and enjoyment in learning, with an emphasis on expanding vocabulary.
Reading is prioritized at Finstock, with a strong phonics curriculum that is delivered with precision. Children are supported from an early age to develop their speaking and listening skills, laying a solid foundation for their reading abilities. The school ensures that reading materials are appropriately matched to pupils' phonetic knowledge, enabling them to become proficient readers. Pupils express a love for reading and have access to a diverse selection of books.
The school maintains high expectations for pupil behavior and attendance, with staff modeling these standards effectively. This has cultivated a culture of politeness and consideration among students, who view their school as a close-knit community. Finstock also emphasizes the importance of community involvement, encouraging pupils to participate in local initiatives and charitable activities.
Leadership at Finstock is characterized by ambition and a commitment to staff development. The school provides a structured training program for teachers, prioritizing their well-being and workload. The collaborative environment within the trust enhances teaching practices and supports continuous improvement.
Overall, Finstock Church of England Primary School exemplifies excellence in education, providing a nurturing and stimulating environment where pupils thrive academically and personally. The school’s dedication to high standards, community engagement, and holistic development positions it as a model for primary education.
