Ofsted Report 2005

Press Release

18 November 2005

"You learn things much quicker than children in many schools", school inspectors tell Oaktree pupils in St John's

Ofsted has written to the children of the Oaktree infant school in St John's, Woking, to inform them that there are a great many things that it likes about the school following an inspectors' visit last month.

The lead inspector's letter adds that the children learn new things quickly and that they work hard. It also says that they behave well and are a pleasure to talk to.

The inspection report describes the school as having "a significant number of strengths" with children in Years 1 and 2 achieving above average standards and all groups making good progress. All areas of the school are judged good, while the extent to which the children adopt healthy lifestyles is considered outstanding.

The inspectors highlight that standards over the past few years have been consistently above average in reading, writing and mathematics, adding that mathematics is especially good.

The report refers to a diverse and wide range of learning experiences available at the Oaktree and recognises the particular strengths of the children contributing to recycling, energy conservation and educating the wider community on environmental issues. Earlier this year, the school became the first Green Flag Eco School in Woking. It was also the first school to achieve Fairtrade status in the borough.

The headteacher and her staff are praised for the approach that they are taking to improve literacy and numeracy skills still further, with particular focus on boys' performance in reading and writing. Standards in information and communication technology (ICT) are regarded as above average, because the well-equipped compute suite in the school's Acorn Centre is used enthusiastically by all children.

Commenting on the Ofsted report, headteacher Glen Alder said:

"It is very encouraging to see our children gain such warm recognition for their hard work and good behaviour. All the staff here are determined to build on the progress made over the last two years and we have an exciting development plan to introduce further improvements."

Mike Rudd, the chair of governors at the Oaktree School, said:

"The school's governors are delighted with the inspectors' report. I want to pay particular tribute to Glen Alder and her staff for the fantastic effort that they have made in improving teaching and learning throughout the school. They have also created an environment in which the children's personal development and well-being can flourish. We are very fortunate too in having such a supportive group of parents who get actively involved in the school's learning and other activities."

 

ENDS

Notes to editors

1. Other key findings in the Ofsted report include recognition that children with learning difficulties and disabilities, including those with statements, are well taught and so make good progress. The report also says children of all ages, ethnic group and gender, feel safe and enjoy school. It adds that the school's "De Bono Thinking Hats" approach contributes effectively to their personal development.
    
2. Comments on the Oaktree in the report include:
    
   • "School's the favourite thing in my whole life" - A Year 2 boy
   • "My child has settled into reception exceptionally well and my child is very happy with the atmosphere of the whole school" - A parent
   • "Well done. Keep your yellow hats on!" - The lead inspector with reference to De Bono's Thinking Hats