Blewbury Church of England Primary School, located in Didcot, Oxfordshire, has recently undergone its first inspection since becoming part of the Oxford Diocesan Schools Trust. The inspection, conducted on May 14 and 15, 2024, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good across various categories, including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. The early years provision received an outstanding rating, highlighting the school's commitment to providing a high-quality educational experience for its youngest learners.
The headteacher, Jo Reeder, leads a dedicated team that fosters an inclusive and caring environment. Pupils at Blewbury Primary School take pride in their school values, which emphasize love, courage, resilience, and forgiveness. The school has established clear rules and routines that contribute to a safe and supportive atmosphere. Pupils feel comfortable approaching adults with their concerns, and they learn to interact kindly with one another, facilitating quick friendships for new students.
The curriculum at Blewbury Primary is designed to build knowledge progressively from the early years through to Year 6. Leaders have clearly defined what pupils need to know and remember, and they have successfully adapted the curriculum for mixed-age classes. However, the inspection noted that in a few subjects, the knowledge expectations were not detailed enough, which could hinder staff clarity on what to teach and when. In most subjects, teachers demonstrate a solid understanding of the curriculum, and lessons are typically structured to build on prior learning. Nevertheless, there are instances where teachers do not check pupils' understanding thoroughly, which may affect the depth of learning.
The school places a strong emphasis on reading, with a phonics program that has proven effective in helping pupils, including those with additional learning barriers, to grasp new concepts quickly. Staff are well-trained in phonics instruction, ensuring that pupils receive the support they need to succeed. The early years curriculum is particularly noteworthy, as it prepares children exceptionally well for their future education. Children engage in cooperative play and develop their communication skills through expertly modeled language by staff.
Behaviour in the classroom is commendable, with pupils showing attentiveness and respect for their peers. When distractions occur, teachers effectively redirect students to maintain a focused learning environment. The school actively monitors attendance and provides support to families to improve attendance rates, ensuring that pupils are present and engaged in their education.
Beyond academics, the school prioritizes the wider development of its pupils. Leaders thoughtfully consider the extracurricular clubs available, which cater to various interests and support emotional well-being. Pupils also have opportunities to take on leadership roles, fostering a sense of responsibility and resilience.
The leadership team at Blewbury Primary is committed to high aspirations for all pupils, maintaining an inclusive vision that places students at the center of decision-making. Staff express satisfaction with the support they receive, which aids in refining their teaching practices. The governing body plays a crucial role in both supporting and challenging staff to achieve their best.
While the school has many strengths, the inspection identified areas for improvement. In a small number of subjects, essential learning outcomes need to be more clearly defined to ensure that all pupils can build on their prior knowledge effectively. Additionally, assessment practices in some subjects require consistency to ensure that teachers accurately gauge pupils' understanding before progressing to new content.
Overall, Blewbury Church of England Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a quality education and fostering a supportive community for its pupils. The positive environment, effective leadership, and focus on personal development contribute to the school's good standing, with clear pathways for continued improvement.
