Dr South’s Church of England Primary School, located in Islip, Kidlington, Oxfordshire, has been recognized for its effective educational practices during an inspection conducted on 15 October 2024. The school, under the leadership of headteacher Helen Watson, is part of the Oxford Diocesan Schools Trust, which provides additional governance and support. The trust is overseen by CEO Anne Dellar and a board of trustees chaired by Kathy Winrow MBE. The school has maintained the high standards identified in its previous inspection, which was rated as good for overall effectiveness.
The school environment is described as nurturing and supportive, fostering a sense of community where pupils thrive. The ethos of joy and collaboration is evident, with staff demonstrating care and understanding, creating a positive atmosphere for learning. High expectations are set for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, which encourages them to achieve well. The school has established strong behavioral routines from the early years, leading to impressive behavior and positive attitudes towards learning among pupils. They feel confident in communicating with adults regarding any concerns.
Pupils benefit from a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including trips, sports, and charity work, which enhance their understanding of the world and promote empathy. Parents express overwhelming support for the school, highlighting the dedication and commitment of the staff in nurturing and inspiring their children.
The curriculum is ambitious and carefully sequenced, starting from Nursery and tailored to meet the needs of all pupils. Teachers employ well-chosen activities that motivate pupils to engage actively in their learning. Staff possess secure subject knowledge, enabling them to present information clearly and connect new learning to prior knowledge. However, there are instances where teachers do not consistently check pupils’ understanding during lessons, which can lead to gaps in learning. The school is actively working to refine its assessment practices to better identify and address these gaps.
Reading is a central focus of the curriculum, with a strong emphasis on developing a love for reading from the outset. Pupils have access to a wide variety of books, and the new school library provides a welcoming space that promotes reading enjoyment. Support is readily available for pupils who struggle with reading, ensuring they receive the help needed to catch up. The curriculum effectively enhances pupils’ understanding of different texts and vocabulary.
The early years setting is characterized by a calm and engaging environment where children are eager to learn. Staff focus on developing early mathematical skills and fine motor skills, laying a strong foundation for future learning in reading and writing. The school promotes a comprehensive approach to pupils’ wider development, encouraging outdoor learning and teaching them about healthy relationships and safety.
Leaders are committed to continuous improvement, and staff feel proud to be part of the school community. Professional development opportunities are valued, and the governing body demonstrates a clear understanding of the school’s strengths and areas for growth. The school has identified appropriate next steps to benefit all pupils.
Safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all students. The school is currently refining its approach to assessing pupils’ understanding of key knowledge, aiming for consistency across the curriculum. This ongoing evaluation will help the school gain clarity on the impact of its educational provision. Overall, Dr South’s Church of England Primary School continues to provide a high-quality education, fostering a positive and enriching learning experience for its pupils.
