Melksham Oak Community School in Wiltshire underwent its first inspection under the Education Act 2005 on October 4 and 5, 2022. The school received an overall effectiveness rating of good across all assessed areas, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth-form provision. The school has established a culture of ambition and high expectations, which is reflected in the calm atmosphere during lessons and organized social times. Pupils feel safe and supported, with a variety of extracurricular activities available, including clubs that respond to student interests.
The school has implemented a broad and ambitious curriculum, with subject leaders collaborating on planning and identifying key learning steps. However, in some subjects, the smaller steps of learning have not been clearly defined, leading to gaps in understanding for some pupils. Teachers consistently apply the same approach to teaching, which helps pupils grasp expectations and review their learning effectively. The sixth-form curriculum maintains the same high standards set in earlier key stages, providing students with the necessary support for their academic journey.
Pupils receive regular feedback on their progress, allowing them to understand what they need to improve. The school has seen an increase in the number of pupils studying a language at key stage four, contributing to a rise in those pursuing the English Baccalaureate. Additionally, the school promotes a wide range of literary texts and has established a reading program for pupils at various stages of literacy development. Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is strong, with staff well-informed about individual needs and effective strategies in place.
The personal, social, and health education curriculum is well-designed, equipping pupils with a solid understanding of relationships and diversity. Pupils are exposed to the world of work through various opportunities, including work experience in Year 10. The school meets the requirements of the Baker Clause, ensuring that pupils receive information about technical education and apprenticeships. Leaders are committed to reducing staff workload and are recognized for their efforts in this area, although there is room for improvement in data analysis to inform decision-making.
Governors play an active role in holding leaders accountable and possess a clear understanding of the school's priorities. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a culture of vigilance among staff and a well-trained safeguarding team. Pupils are educated on online safety and know whom to approach with concerns. While the school has made strides in improving behavior, there are ongoing concerns regarding the use of derogatory language among a minority of pupils. Leaders, staff, and pupils are encouraged to collaborate to foster a respectful school culture.
To enhance the quality of education further, leaders must ensure that the curriculum is thoroughly planned across all subjects, allowing teachers to clearly understand its content and how it informs pupil learning. Addressing the concerns regarding derogatory language will also be essential in promoting a positive environment for all students. Overall, Melksham Oak Community School demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement and the well-being of its pupils.
