Larkrise Primary School, located in Oxford, has recently undergone an inspection that highlighted its overall effectiveness as good. The school is characterized by a welcoming and inclusive environment where pupils feel cared for and nurtured. The values of creativity, kindness, and adventure are evident in the way students interact with each other and engage in their learning. Pupils are aware of the high expectations set by their teachers and are motivated to meet these challenges. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they do occur, school leaders address them promptly and effectively. Students feel confident in seeking help from adults if they have concerns.
The school offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including clubs for chess, football, computing, and film. Outdoor learning experiences, such as nature exploration and survival skills, are also part of the curriculum. Many students take on leadership roles, contributing positively to the school community through initiatives like the eco-council and anti-bullying ambassador training. Parental support for the school is strong, with many expressing satisfaction with the respectful and supportive treatment their children receive.
Leaders at Larkrise Primary School, backed by the multi-academy trust, demonstrate high ambition for the school and its pupils. They have made significant improvements across various areas and continue to seek further development. The curriculum is particularly effective in reading, mathematics, and science, where students consistently perform well. Leaders have carefully planned the curriculum in most foundation subjects, ensuring that learning builds on prior knowledge. However, there are instances where lesson activities do not effectively build on previous learning, and some foundation subjects lack clarity regarding what students should remember over time.
The school prioritizes the individual needs of its pupils, employing detailed assessments to identify and address challenges in learning and behavior. Support for students with special educational needs and disabilities is implemented promptly, often involving well-trained teaching assistants. The school fosters a respectful and calm atmosphere conducive to learning, with minimal disruption from poor behavior. Strong routines established in the early years help students engage attentively in lessons.
Attendance is a focus for school leaders, who have successfully improved attendance for students with special educational needs. However, there remains a need to enhance attendance among disadvantaged pupils to ensure they do not miss critical learning opportunities. The curriculum also emphasizes personal and character development, providing students with a broad understanding of life in modern Britain, including lessons on diversity and equality.
The governing body possesses a clear understanding of the school's strengths and weaknesses, sharing the leaders' vision for the future. They consider staff workload and well-being when implementing changes, ensuring a supportive environment for teachers. The school has established strong connections with the local community, gaining their trust and support.
Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to identify and address concerns proactively. Leaders prioritize safeguarding, ensuring that necessary checks are conducted on new staff and that pupils are educated about safety, including healthy relationships and online safety. Overall, Larkrise Primary School is committed to providing a high-quality education and fostering a positive learning environment for all its pupils.
