Edith Moorhouse Primary School, located in Carterton, Oxfordshire, was inspected on 22-23 October 2019 and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school is characterized by a nurturing and friendly environment where pupils enjoy attending. The school promotes values of aspiration, resilience, and well-being, which pupils actively apply in their interactions with one another. Staff members are attentive to the needs of the pupils, providing additional support when necessary, and pupils appreciate the resources available to them, such as the nurture room for discussing concerns. The school fosters a sense of community, particularly within its Armed Forces context, encouraging pupils to learn about diverse cultures and the importance of equality.
Leaders and teachers maintain high expectations for pupil achievement, resulting in good behavior and engagement in lessons. Pupils feel safe and are aware of bullying, which they report as rare, confident that staff will address any incidents. The school promotes healthy activities through initiatives like sports leadership, where older pupils engage younger ones in physical activities.
The curriculum is designed to raise aspirations and is tailored to meet the needs and interests of pupils. In subjects like science and physical education, there is a clear structure that supports skill and knowledge progression. However, some subjects lack this clarity due to new leaders still developing their expertise. Senior leaders recognize the need for improvement in planning the sequence of skills and knowledge across all year groups.
Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and employ various strategies to ensure pupil understanding. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, as well as those from disadvantaged backgrounds, receive appropriate support. The curriculum allows for revisiting previously learned material, particularly in mathematics, which helps build confidence and problem-solving skills.
A growing culture of reading is evident in the school, with a well-structured reading program that emphasizes vocabulary development. From an early age, children learn essential phonics skills, and staff provide timely support to those who need it. The selection of texts used in lessons encourages connections between different subjects, enhancing overall learning.
Pupils collaborate effectively to solve problems, fostering resilience and a positive learning environment. They understand the rule of law and respect cultural differences, promoting kindness and care for one another. In the early years, children engage in play and collaborative activities that support their mathematical understanding and language skills. Staff in the nursery and reception classes work closely to ensure that learning becomes progressively challenging.
The River Learning Trust provides support and oversight to the headteacher, helping to identify strengths and areas for improvement within the school. While governors are supportive and eager to contribute positively, they require further training to enhance their understanding of the school's educational quality.
The safeguarding arrangements at Edith Moorhouse Primary School are effective, with a strong culture of safety and regular staff training. Staff are vigilant in identifying potential risks and follow procedures to report concerns. Pupils learn about safety outside of school through additional training from local services.
To improve, subject leaders need further support and training to develop their expertise and ensure the curriculum is sufficiently demanding. The governing board must also enhance their understanding of the school's strengths and the quality of education provided. Overall, Edith Moorhouse Primary School demonstrates a commitment to fostering a supportive and effective learning environment for its pupils.
