At Oaklands Primary School, we believe we offer a unique primary school experience that is child-centred and built on developing strong relationships with children and families. Every decision we make has the children at its heart, and we are continually seeking innovative ways to enhance our provision. We are extremely proud of our school, and we would like to highlight the following reasons to choose us to care for and nurture your children:

Transition into Reception

We understand the importance of a smooth transition into Reception. Our thorough transition process is overseen by Miss Haley, who has extensive Early Years experience. Families who choose Oaklands benefit from three stay-and-play sessions, including one where parents/carers can join their children for lunch. We also offer home visits and can visit children in their nursery settings if that is more convenient for working families. This ensures that children feel confident and ready to embark on their Oaklands journey in September.

Mission-Based Learning in Year 1

Recognising that the shift from a play-based curriculum in Reception to more formal learning in Year 1 can be challenging, we incorporate elements of learning through play throughout Year 1. Most tables are removed to create space for play. All pupils receive input together on the carpet before embarking on learning 'missions' linked to the National Curriculum in the classroom environment. Meanwhile, the Class Teacher and support staff work with targeted groups of children at tutor tables. As the year progresses, more tables are gradually introduced, ensuring that by the end of the summer term, children are prepared for a more formal environment in Year 2.

A Therapeutic Approach to Behaviour Support

We believe that building relationships is key to helping children regulate their behaviour in school. We support children by recognising that all behaviour is communication. We teach children to behave through educational and protective consequences rather than punitive punishments. Our classrooms have been redecorated and decluttered in line with research showing that therapeutic environments improve children's ability to concentrate and learn. 

Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL)

As an OPAL school, Oaklands provides access to all school grounds throughout the year. Wellies and a change of socks are essential! Children engage in activities such as climbing trees, building dens, playing in the mud kitchen, drawing, dressing up, dancing, and participating in activities planned by our Play Lead. Our children enjoy play assemblies where they help establish rules around safe play, and pupil feedback is exceptionally positive. We believe that the 20% of time children spend at school during breaks should be seen as an important learning opportunity and carefully planned for, just like the rest of the curriculum.

Ambitious Academic Standards

While Oaklands is a highly inclusive and nurturing school, we also value academic attainment. Pupils are carefully tracked, with timely interventions in place to address any gaps in learning. Our clearly sequenced curriculum ensures that children build on prior learning year on year. Our end-of-Key Stage 2 results are strong and compare favourably to other local schools, as well as nationally.

Leadership Opportunities

Pupils at Oaklands have the chance to take the lead in various areas, including:

• Eco-Council: Currently working on retaining our externally recognised Green Flag Status.

• Play Rangers: Supporting staff and friends during break and lunch times.

• Year 6 Buddies: Each Reception pupil is paired with a Year 6 buddy to support them through their first year of school.

• Sports Leaders: Year 5 and 6 pupils are selected and trained at Monks Walk Secondary School to lead sports activities during break and lunch times.

• Oaklands is one of only two schools in Welwyn/Hatfield to hold the Platinum School Games Mark.

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Further reasons to choose us include, but are not limited to: -

• Wrap around care available from 7:45am - 6:00pm
• Forest School sessions for all classes 
• Being a small school means that the staff know all the children and families.

We invite you to join the Oaklands community, where every child is valued and nurtured to reach their full potential! If this sounds like the type of school for your family, and you would like to know more, please get in touch to book a school tour by emailing admin@oaklands.herts.sch.uk.