Hardwick Primary School, located in Ferriston, Banbury, Oxfordshire, has recently undergone an inspection on the 24th and 25th of September 2024. The school has received commendable ratings across various categories, including good for the quality of education, personal development, and leadership and management, while behaviour and attitudes have been rated as outstanding. The early years provision has also been recognized as outstanding, reflecting the school's commitment to providing a high-quality educational experience for its pupils.
Under the leadership of headteacher Charlotte Taylor, Hardwick Primary School is part of the GLF Schools Trust, which plays a significant role in the governance and management of the school. The trust is led by CEO Julian Drinkall and overseen by a board of trustees chaired by Lynne O'Reilly. This collaborative structure ensures that the school benefits from a wide range of expertise and support.
Pupils at Hardwick Primary School embody the values of aiming high, being safe, being kind, inspiring others, and having pride. These values are integral to the school's culture and influence decision-making across all areas. The school fosters an environment where pupils are encouraged to persevere through challenges, leading to strong achievements, particularly in writing and mathematics. The positive atmosphere at the school is evident, as pupils express enthusiasm for learning and maintain respectful relationships with staff and peers. Staff members actively support pupils in recognizing and managing their emotions, contributing to a calm and considerate school environment.
The school offers a diverse range of opportunities for character development, including leadership roles such as play leaders and participation in the pupil leadership team. These experiences help pupils cultivate respect and tolerance for others. The curriculum is well-structured, outlining the essential knowledge pupils need to acquire in a logical sequence. This approach effectively prepares pupils for their next educational steps, starting from the early years, where exceptional concentration and focused activities set a strong foundation for learning.
Teachers at Hardwick Primary School demonstrate a secure understanding of the curriculum, enabling pupils to build their knowledge progressively. Engaging lesson activities capture pupils' interest, and thorough assessments in the early years ensure that any learning needs are promptly identified and addressed. The provision for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is particularly effective, with targeted support enabling these pupils to thrive across all subjects.
While the school excels in many areas, there are a few subjects where assessment practices could be improved. In some instances, teachers do not adequately check pupils' understanding of specific knowledge outlined in the curriculum, which can lead to gaps in learning. Addressing these gaps is essential for ensuring that all pupils achieve their full potential.
The school places a strong emphasis on communication and language development, particularly in the early years. Staff provide expert support to enhance pupils' language skills, fostering confident communicators who can articulate their thoughts effectively. Behaviour at the school is exemplary, with a focus on teaching positive behaviour and effective learning strategies. This emphasis on behaviour contributes to a culture of self-awareness and a strong desire to engage in learning.
Governance at Hardwick Primary School is robust, with the local standards board demonstrating a thorough understanding of the school's operations. The trust provides valuable support and challenge to school leaders, who are dedicated to ensuring the best possible outcomes for pupils. The school maintains effective safeguarding arrangements, prioritizing the safety and well-being of all students.
Overall, Hardwick Primary School is a thriving educational institution that prioritizes high standards of teaching and learning, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all pupils. The commitment to continuous improvement and the well-being of students is evident in every aspect of the school's operations.
