Excitement filled the air with the anticipated arrival of the Minister for School Standards, Catherine McKinnell. To coincide with the timing of the DfE’s publication of the annual update of the pupil premium guidance for school leaders, the Minister had expressed an interest in visiting a school doing exceptional work to support all pupils, including disadvantaged pupils.
The Minister moved from class to class to witness at first-hand how the Oakdene curriculum is expertly designed to deliver a winning formula of rigour and creativity. In nursery, the Minister happily held minibeasts to promote early language whilst reception pupils were immersed in their farm topic. The Minister was impressed watching Y1 pupils follow their individual design and technology plans to create a bread roll in the dedicated food technology room. As she continued lesson visits in Y3 and Y6, the Minister asked older pupils pertinent questions; the Minister’s warmth made all feel at ease. The children walked with their heads held high around the school and spoke with polite confidence to the Minister.
It has been a privilege to welcome the Minister to our wonderful school. Our staff were so proud to share their beautiful learning environments and to present to her the exciting opportunities the school is offering the children every day.