Witney Community Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 3 July 2023

Pupils flourish at this community school. They understand the school values, which underpin their actions and attitudes. Pupils develop into responsible, articulate and impressive young people. They enjoy the variety of trips and visitors they have across the curriculum, such as to the Steam Museum. These experiences enhance and bring learning to life. Pupils enjoy exploring new ideas and learn well across the curriculum. The school has a calm and welcoming ethos. Pupils are kind and considerate to all. They recognise the impact of their actions on others. Pupils are keen to take care of each other. For example, older pupils are trained to support their younger peers at breaktimes and to champion well-being. Pupils are encouraged to be active and many represent the school in sporting competitions, including cross country and boccia. Pupils learn the true meaning of citizenship. The eco ambassadors are proud to have achieved a number of rewards. Pupils are excited to engage in range of community projects such as the local Witney Carnival where their float, raising awareness for the local foodbank, won. Throughout the year, pupils also raise funds for local and national charities.

What the school should improve

• Leaders' curriculum thinking is still at an early stage in a small number of subjects. This means that pupils do not always learn or remember the key information they need for what comes next. Leaders should ensure that everybody is clear how the essential knowledge in each subject should build over time.
• In some foundation subjects, staff do not routinely recap and revisit prior learning. As a result, pupils cannot always link new learning to their existing understanding. Leaders should ensure that all staff understand how learning moves from pupils' working memory to their long-term memory.

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