A secondary school on the outskirts of Reading that was rated ‘Inadequate’ has been taken over by a new educational trust.
Oakbank School in Ryeish Green has had a troubled history, most recently after it was branded ‘Inadequate’ by Ofsted education inspectors in November 2024.
During the inspection, pupils complained about a lack of mutual respect, reporting disruptive, aggressive behaviour and swearing being common.
The school was run at the time by the Anthem Schools Trust, sparking a protest in February, where parents demanded action to improve the quality of teaching at the school.
In a temporary intervention, the Greenshaw Learning Trust became involved in the management of the school alongside the Anthem Trust.
Ofsted inspectors visited Oakbank in May for a special measures monitoring visit.
They praised school leaders for implementing an effective strategy laying out expectations for pupils’ behaviour, but acknowledged that there was still disruption.
The monitoring report states: “In some lessons, especially where pupils are taught by staff they do not know, pupils’ attitudes to learning are not improved.”
The school went fully under the control of the Greenshaw Learning Trust at the start of this month.
Jonathan Heap, the headteacher, said: “Oakbank is a school with huge potential.
“We know there is work to do, but we are ready for the challenge and determined to make a real difference.
“Our focus will be on creating a calm, safe, and supportive environment where every student can thrive.
“We want families to feel welcome and involved in school life, and to know that we are here to listen.
“Together, we will build a school that everyone can be proud of.”
Will Smith, CEO of the Greenshaw Learning Trust, added: “We are delighted that Oakbank School has joined our family of schools.
“As part of the Greenshaw Learning Trust, Oakbank will not only benefit from but also contribute to a strong network of like-minded schools and high-quality support services.
“We look forward to working together to enhance opportunities and outcomes for all the young people at the school.”
At a full meeting of Wokingham Borough Council, councillor Alison Swaddle (Conservative, Bulmershe & Coronation) attacked the Liberal Democrat leadership, calling the events at Oakbank a ‘crisis’.
A primary school was established in Ryeish Green called Three Mile Cross Primary School in 1911. After the Second World War, it became a secondary school, and was later called Ryeish Green, which was closed due to falling pupil numbers in 2010.
In September 2012, it was reopened as Oakbank free school.
Greenshaw Learning Trust is now responsible for 37 primary, secondary, and special schools across the south of England, including eight in Berkshire.
That includes the former John Madejski Academy in Whitley, which was renamed Hartland High School this month.
