West Kidlington Primary and Nursery School, located in Kidlington, Oxfordshire, has been recognized for its overall effectiveness as good following its inspection in September 2019. The school provides a nurturing and caring environment where pupils thrive and benefit from a wide range of inspirational experiences. These include guest speakers and drama presentations that enrich the curriculum. The school’s values are deeply embedded in the culture, with pupils demonstrating kindness and respect towards each other and staff. They take pride in receiving rewards for embodying these values, which align with the school’s motto of being kind and giving their best.
The high expectations set by teachers and leaders contribute to positive behavior among pupils, who respond well to reminders about conduct. However, some pupils struggle with self-regulation, indicating a need for further support in managing their behavior. The early years staff maintain strong connections with parents, ensuring that children settle in well. Pupils exhibit enthusiasm for learning and show genuine interest in the diverse subjects offered. While they express a desire for deeper exploration of certain topics, the overall engagement in learning is commendable.
Safety is a priority at the school, with staff dedicated to ensuring a secure environment. Pupils are educated about safety issues within their subjects, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary for positive societal contributions. The leadership team is effective, with a clear vision for high standards and a commitment to ensuring that pupils become fluent readers early on. Staff are provided with the necessary training to teach phonics effectively, and additional support is available for those who struggle with reading.
Pupils enjoy a comprehensive curriculum that fosters knowledge and skills in reading, writing, and mathematics, preparing them well for secondary education. The writing curriculum has been enhanced, allowing older pupils to draw inspiration from well-written texts. In mathematics, the curriculum builds on prior knowledge, enabling pupils to tackle complex problems confidently. However, there is ongoing work to improve the coherence and sequencing of the curriculum in subjects beyond English and mathematics, such as history and geography.
The multi-academy trust provides valuable support to the school, with trustees actively involved in governance and improvement efforts. The local governing body plays a significant role in enhancing the school’s performance and fostering relationships with parents. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive excellent support, ensuring they do not fall behind. Teachers monitor their progress closely and provide timely interventions to address any learning gaps.
Leaders have introduced new behavior management strategies, collaborating with parents to reinforce positive messages at home. While many of these approaches are effective, further development is needed in certain areas, particularly for pupils with specific behavioral needs. The personal development program is exceptional, integrating moral and spiritual education and offering activities that address societal risks.
In early years, children develop confidence in numeracy and language skills, leaving Reception well-prepared for Year 1. A higher-than-average proportion of children achieve a good level of development, although there is room for improvement in introducing new learning effectively. The safeguarding arrangements are robust, with a dedicated team ensuring the safety and well-being of pupils. Overall, while the school demonstrates many strengths, there are areas for continued development, particularly in curriculum coherence and behavior management strategies.
