Garsington Church of England Primary School has been recognized as a good school following its inspection in January 2020. The school is located in Garsington, Oxfordshire, and serves children aged four to eleven. The pupils at Garsington Primary School express high levels of happiness and safety, describing their school experience as incredible, happy, and amazing. They demonstrate excellent behavior, showing respect towards each other and the adults in the school. Instances of bullying are rare, and pupils feel confident that any issues will be addressed promptly by staff.
The school’s values are evident in the collaborative efforts of both staff and pupils. Older students take on responsibilities during playtime, assisting younger pupils with kindness and enthusiasm. This reflects the ethos of being a Red Kite Learner, which is embraced throughout the school community. The leadership team, including the headteacher, is dedicated to ensuring that every child achieves their best. They provide a broad curriculum enriched by themed weeks and educational trips, which pupils find engaging and enjoyable. Notable events like Aspirations Week and visits to places such as Yenworthy Lodge are particularly well-received.
Parents and carers express strong support for the school, praising the staff for their dedication and commitment to the children’s well-being. The school has maintained a high standard of education since its last inspection, with leaders focused on achieving high standards for all pupils. The school’s vision emphasizes creating a vibrant community where everyone can believe and achieve. Leaders are actively developing the curriculum to enhance learning and retention across various subjects.
While the curriculum is well-planned in some areas, there is still work to be done in others to ensure a consistent approach to sequencing learning. Leaders are aware of the need to monitor the effectiveness of the new curriculum plans and make necessary adjustments. Pupils excel in reading, writing, and mathematics, with a strong emphasis on reading from the outset. The phonics teaching is organized effectively, and pupils enjoy a variety of reading materials, fostering a love for reading.
Mathematics lessons are engaging, incorporating practical activities and problem-solving challenges. Teachers ensure that pupils master essential skills before progressing to more complex topics. The school promotes high expectations for behavior, teaching pupils the necessary habits for successful learning. Outdoor learning opportunities are provided, allowing pupils to apply their skills in practical settings, such as conducting science experiments in the school grounds.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support, ensuring they can access the full curriculum. The early years program is effective, with staff providing stimulating activities that encourage exploration and collaboration among children. The leadership team is well-respected, and staff morale is high, with leaders being supportive of staff workload and well-being.
The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, with well-trained staff who know how to respond to concerns. The school fosters a culture of well-being, ensuring that pupils feel safe and cared for. Overall, Garsington Church of England Primary School is a nurturing environment where pupils thrive academically and socially, with a clear commitment to continuous improvement in all areas of education.
