At OAK Multi Academy Trust, we are committed to supporting our schools in providing the very best education, ensuring that every child flourishes and grows with a love for learning. We are delighted to celebrate Overdale Infant School’s recent Ofsted inspection, which has resulted in a good rating across all areas. This achievement highlights the dedication and commitment of the entire school community, and we are proud to have played a role in supporting their journey.
A Community Where Children Thrive
At OAK, we believe that every school should be a place where children feel safe, valued, and inspired. Ofsted recognised this in their report, with parents describing Overdale Infant School as “ a family. It is a lovely community.”
Our vision is for all OAK Multi Academy Trust schools to be rooted in their localities, offering a nurturing environment that fosters curiosity and ambition. Overdale Infant School has exemplified this by working closely with parents and the wider community to create a learning environment where every child feels included and supported.
Strength in Teaching and Learning
We believe in knowledge-rich learning practices, ensuring that all children have access to high-quality teaching that builds strong foundations for future success. Ofsted praised Overdale Infant School’s commitment to reading and phonics, recognising the school’s dedication to ensuring all children achieve well:
“The school has embedded its approach to phonics well. Staff expertly introduce new sounds with precision. The school successfully supports pupils who struggle with learning to read, or speak English as an additional language.”
We support all our schools in implementing a curriculum that is rich, experiential, and ambitious, ensuring that learning is not just a function of school, but a lifelong pursuit. Overdale Infant School’s success in reading reflects our trust-wide approach to ensuring children develop a deep understanding and passion for literature.
Investing in Staff, Investing in Success
A key part of our mission is to provide high-quality professional development for our staff. Overdale Infant School has embraced this, with Ofsted noting the impact of their approach to teacher training:
“The school provides high quality professional development to staff. Leaders’ personalised coaching at every opportunity ensures that staff implement the curriculum well.”
We believe that by investing in our educators, we invest in our students. Across all our schools, we provide coaching, leadership development, and opportunities for continuous professional learning to ensure that every teacher is equipped to deliver the best possible education.
A Commitment to Well-being and Character Development
At OAK, we understand that education is about more than just academic success – it’s about developing well-rounded individuals who are confident in their place in the world. Ofsted recognised Overdale Infant School’s strong pastoral support, noting:
“Pastoral support for pupils’ well-being is strong.”
This aligns with our trust-wide focus on ensuring children feel safe, supported, and empowered. Overdale Infant School’s approach to well-being reflects our belief that all children should have the opportunity to thrive, both academically and personally.
A Message from Overdale Infant School’s Headteacher
Reflecting on this achievement, Overdale Infant School’s Headteacher, Mrs. Hayley Holmes, shared her gratitude:
“This Ofsted outcome is a testament to the hard work, passion and commitment of our staff, pupils and their families. We are incredibly proud to have achieved GOOD in all areas, reflecting our shared vision of providing an outstanding education within a caring and inclusive environment. Overdale truly is a family, and this success belongs to everyone who contributes to making our school such a wonderful place to learn and grow.”
Looking Ahead
While we celebrate this success, our commitment to continuous improvement remains. At OAK, we will continue to support Overdale Infant School – and all our schools – as they build on this achievement and strive for even greater success.
We are proud to stand alongside Overdale Infant School as they continue their journey, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to flourish, achieve and grow into confident, curious learners.
To read the full Ofsted report see here.