Oakhurst Community First School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 14 April 2026

Pupils who attend Oakhurst First School experience a secure start to their schooling. The school’s motto, ‘from tiny acorns mighty oaks grow’, is brought to life. In Nursery Year, pupils begin their journey in the Acorn class, where they grow both emotionally and academically. Pupils who are disadvantaged or who have special educational needs and/or disabilities access the same opportunities across the school. Everyone becomes part of a respectful and inclusive community from the moment they join. Children in Reception Year respond well to the routines that are in place. They enjoy learning through play and develop important basic skills securely, such as phonics. Staff know the children well and understand each child’s strengths and areas for development. They adapt the curriculum thoughtfully to remove barriers to learning. Staff accurately identify children’s starting points. They check on the progress pupils make across the curriculum carefully, providing timely catch-up support when required. For example, pupils who do not meet the expected standard in phonics receive additional targeted support, which helps them to catch up quickly. Pupils show a clear zest for life and learning, they attend well and feel safe. Across the school, they form positive relationships with their peers and with staff. Pupils consistently demonstrate high levels of respect for one another. For instance, in Reception Year, children eagerly help a classmate when problems arise. Older pupils describe their peers as ‘loyal and trusting’. They value school friendships and the opportunities the school gives to them. Bullying is not a concern to pupils. Pupils typically achieve well in national curriculum tests and leave Oakhurst well prepared for the next stage of their education. Teachers help pupils develop a clear understanding of life in modern Britain. Pupils particularly enjoy learning about different careers through visits from role models, such as firefighters and doctors. They say these experiences help them develop aspirations for their future lives.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that staff in the early years develop the necessary expertise so that their interactions consistently support the development of children’s communication and language skills.
• Leaders should continue to refine more precise actions or targets within support plans, to ensure that the needs of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities are met.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)