Kidmore End Church of England Primary School, located in Oxfordshire, underwent its first inspection under the Education Act 2005 on October 10 and 11, 2023. The school received an overall effectiveness rating of good across all evaluated areas, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The executive headteacher, Martina Parsons, oversees the school, which is part of The Oxford Diocesan Schools Trust, managed by CEO Anne Dellar and a board of trustees chaired by Kathryn Winrow.
Pupils at Kidmore End Primary School exhibit a strong sense of belonging and appreciate the support from adults and the school community. They feel safe and happy, with one pupil expressing that adults help them recover from setbacks. The school’s values of kindness, respect, curiosity, and resilience are well understood by the students, who can articulate their significance and how they are integrated into their learning. Pupils enjoy participating in various extracurricular activities, including clubs for choir, sewing, drama, and chess, which help them build confidence through leadership roles and presentations.
The school promotes a positive and respectful environment where pupils understand and adhere to rules and routines. They respond well to high expectations set by adults, fostering a culture of motivation and support for one another's well-being. The curriculum is ambitious and tailored to meet the diverse needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Key subjects like mathematics, phonics, and early reading are prioritized, with teachers effectively monitoring pupil understanding. However, some subjects are still developing, and staff expertise in certain areas needs enhancement to ensure all pupils achieve their potential.
Leadership at the school is effective, with a focus on managing staff workload and supporting professional development. The school is aware of its strengths and areas for improvement, leading to sustained enhancements in teaching practices, particularly in phonics and reading. Parents express appreciation for the school's engagement with them, highlighting the nurturing and supportive environment that meets their children's needs.
Pupils with special educational needs achieve well due to effective support and collaboration with specialists. However, the school recognizes the need for quicker identification of specific needs for some pupils to ensure they receive timely support. Phonics instruction begins in Reception, with reading materials aligned with the sounds being taught. Staff implement systems to monitor progress and provide additional support for pupils who may fall behind, fostering a love for reading through shared stories and book recommendations.
The school places significant emphasis on pupils' wider development and pastoral care. Students take pride in their roles, such as team captains and school councillors, and enjoy responsibilities that contribute to the school community. After-school activities are well-attended, providing opportunities for all pupils to engage and learn about democracy and online safety. The consistent care and support from the staff contribute to developing pupils' resilience and a love for learning.
The safeguarding arrangements at Kidmore End Primary School are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The inspection highlighted the need for ongoing training to enhance staff subject knowledge in certain areas and to improve the speed of identifying specific needs for pupils with special educational needs. Overall, the school demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement and providing a supportive educational experience for all its pupils.
