Sutton Oak CofE Primary School

Overview

Sutton Oak C of E Primary School continues to be a good school, where pupils are happy, feel safe, and describe the community as "one big family." Leaders maintain high expectations for achievement, ensuring all pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities, access a broad and balanced curriculum.

Strengths

• Pupils demonstrate positive attitudes to learning, are "well mannered and kind," and show thoughtful conduct that makes the school a "happy and friendly place."
• The early years curriculum is "well-designed and exciting," preparing children effectively for Year 1, with a particular strength in developing secure phonics understanding.
• Staff collaborate effectively to identify and support pupils with SEND, ensuring they "access the same learning as other pupils" and receive timely help to catch up.
• Reading is given a high profile, with staff suitably trained to teach phonics accurately and consistently, while older pupils act as reading ambassadors.
• Governors provide "effective challenge" for school leaders and hold them to account, while leaders support staff well-being by managing workload appropriately.

Areas to improve

• Leaders must finalise curriculum design in one or two remaining subjects so teachers know exactly "what needs to be taught and what pupils need to know and remember over time."
• Leaders should continue working with parents and agencies to ensure all pupils attend school regularly, as irregular attendance prevents some from experiencing "all that the school has on offer."

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with staff well trained to spot signs of risk and make timely referrals, while the curriculum helps pupils understand how to keep themselves safe.