Inspectors said ‘Pupils thrive in this happy place’ and found the school’s ‘rich and interesting curriculum goes beyond academic subjects to ensure pupils develop skills for life.’ They praised the ‘high standards of behaviour’ and noted that parents are highly positive of the school, including of the staff’s commitment to ‘ensuring that every child has the chance to succeed.’

The report highlights the ‘Outstanding’ programme of personal development for children, which includes learning skills such as managing money, life-saving and cooking; taking part in activities such as karate, cycling and outdoor adventure; and gaining leadership experience as school councillors, wellbeing ambassadors and eco-warriors. In July, the school was also presented with a National Nurturing Schools Award for its dedication to children’s social, emotional, and mental health and wellbeing.

The successful inspection marks a new milestone for St Frideswide’s, which opened in November 2020 on Cricket Road. Named after the patron saint of Oxford, the school has since forged strong links within the city to provide rich opportunities for children. It is twinned with Oxford University’s Somerville College, which offers 1:1 maths tutoring and experiences such as creating a biodiversity garden; it welcomes Faculty of Music students providing expertise for music lessons; the school choir has performed at Christ Church Cathedral and the Sheldonian Theatre; and children take regular local trips including the Bodleian Libraries, Botanic Gardens - and learning how ice cream is made at George & Danver.

The school’s outward focus is just as strong: the curriculum encourages children to learn about the world around them including languages and cultures, recent trips further afield have included sailing on the Solent, and in September the school was awarded a Geography quality mark.

St Frideswide’s headteacher, Hannah Forder-Ball, said:

‘I am constantly humbled by the children, parents and staff team at St Frideswide. We as a school family are grateful to all those who have been part of journey and those who continue to inspire and help us. This is a school that advocates social justice and equity. The children here understand that not everyone needs the same things to thrive and we are delighted that this inspection team were able to recoginse that. We would really welcome families who are interested to come and see what we do at St Frideswide.’

To arrange a visit email office@stfrideswides.co.uk or call 01865 509444.