St Laurence Church of England School, on Thame Road, was visited by the inspection team in January, and they concluded that all aspects of the school life were either at the expected or strong standard.

The principle of the inspection is different to the one-word judgements that have been used in the past, with greater focus being placed on the descriptions that the inspection team use to explain their findings about the school.

In the final report, inspectors praised the school as a place where children feel “known, valued and supported” and, as a result, they “produce high-quality work”, “achieve well” and “are well prepared for the next stages in their education.”

Nicole Cooper, Headteacher, said: “Given that this inspection framework was less than two months old when we were visited, we weren’t truly sure what to expect.

“However, what we did know is that our school has moved mountains since we were last inspected in 2022. At every level there has been improvement, progress and success – and it was lovely to see our whole community come together to acknowledge that to the inspection team.”

Alongside the many positive comments, the inspectors noted that:

· Pupils “describe it (the school) as a place where everybody is welcome and ‘where they come to grow’. They behave with courtesy and kindness.”

· “The curriculum is ambitious, well ordered and identifies clear end points.”

· “Leaders are rightly proud of the school’s inclusive culture and practice.”

· “Children get off to a positive and settled start in the early years. Productive partnerships with parents and carers support children's learning and are valued.”

· The curriculum, wider opportunities and support for pupils' emotional wellbeing work together to help pupils become confident, reflective and responsible citizens.

As a result, St Laurence secured strong or expected standard in every judgement area. All safeguarding standards were also met.

Nicole added: “The new framework is tough, and the new expected standard definitely reflects the fact that more is being asked of schools. On reflection, that makes me even prouder of the outcome, as Ofsted saw us just doing what we do – and that is trying to make every day special and productive for our brilliant children.

“While all of Ofsted’s comments are lovely, there are two other things that really stood out throughout the inspection.

“Firstly, nearly all of our parents told the inspectors their child was happy here and that they would recommend the school to others. In addition, the report is full of praise for our children. Their attitudes and successes are the greatest indicator of the strength of any school.”

“The outcome shows what a strong and tight knit-community we are.”

Alongside the positive comments, the inspection team also highlighted three areas that St. Laurence needs to take next to further enhance the experience the children have. This includes further embedding consistent handwriting practices, refining the use of assessment systems and strengthening approaches to number fluency.

The school is part of Oxford Diocesan Schools Trust, a multi-academy trust with over 40 schools across the Diocese.

Sharon Mullins, the Trust’s CEO, said: “This report is not just about what the inspection team saw over these two days, but is testament to how much has been collectively achieved since their last inspection in 2022.

“It has been a real team effort, and I would like to acknowledge the efforts of everyone who has been part of the journey. Children and happy and thriving – and that ambition is at the heart of every one of our schools.

“The future is very bright for St Laurence Church of England School.”