Pupils at Oakhill Church School in Radstock ‘start each day with joy and a sense of pride in their school’, according to a new Ofsted inspection.
Inspectors visited the village primary school earlier this year under the revised national framework, highlighting a warm, inclusive culture and strong leadership.
Inclusion and leadership and governance were both rated as ‘strong standard’, reflecting what inspectors described as a highly inclusive environment understood and demonstrated by staff and pupils alike.
The report noted that leaders have established a culture where pupils’ learning, development and preparation for life beyond school sit firmly at the heart of decision-making.
Inspectors said, ‘Leaders have established a highly inclusive school culture which is clearly understood and demonstrated by staff and pupils, alongside rigorous oversight of provision for pupils who need additional support or adaptations.’
They also praised the school’s commitment to staff development, noting that professional learning is prioritised and supported by the wider trust.
Staff were described as empowered to aspire highly, including those at the start of their teaching careers and non-teaching staff.
Community cohesion was another standout feature, with inspectors highlighting collaborative projects such as the development of outdoor learning spaces and strong relationships with families.
Parents and carers were reported to have many positive views about the school’s improvement journey.
Across other areas, including attendance and behaviour, curriculum and teaching, early years and personal development and wellbeing, the school was judged to meet the expected standard.
Inspectors found strong relationships, improving behaviour and a carefully sequenced curriculum, alongside effective early years provision and thoughtful work around wellbeing. Safeguarding was also praised, with the report noting an open and positive culture where pupils feel safe and concerns are addressed quickly and effectively.
The pupils’ daily experience stood out, with inspectors observing that children are welcomed each morning with music and by staff who show genuine interest in their wellbeing.
The report said, ‘Pupils start each day with joy and a sense of pride in their school… they are welcomed warmly with music and by staff that show genuine interest in their wellbeing and readiness to start the day.’
Inspectors also noted recent improvements in reading and writing, with mathematics showing positive progress in current learning.
Executive headteacher Stephanie Dowley said, “This report reflects the hard work and commitment of our whole school community – staff, pupils, families and the trust. We are proud of the strong standards recognised by inspectors, and we remain fully focused on continuing to strengthen academic outcomes and provide an exceptional, inclusive education for every child.”
Nikki Edwards, chief executive officer of the Bath and Wells Multi Academy Trust, added, “We are incredibly proud of Oakhill Church School. This inspection result showcases the dedication and resilience of leaders, staff and pupils, and reflects the transformative work that has taken place over the past several years.”
The inspection was carried out under Ofsted’s new framework, which places greater emphasis on inclusion, pupils’ lived experiences, wellbeing and support for children with additional needs.
Rather than a single overall grade, the new system provides a more detailed picture of how schools meet the needs of their communities.
