Investigation launched into SEND school near Oxford
Oxfordshire County Council scrutinises forced academisation of Woodeaton Manor School
An investigation into the academisation process of Woodeaton Manor School, near Oxford, has been initiated by Oxfordshire County Council.
Woodeaton Manor School, which focuses on autism education, caters to approximately 80 pupils, all of whom have education, health, and care plans (EHCPs).
The school was rated ‘inadequate’ by Ofsted in November 2023 and subsequently placed under special measures, resulting in mandatory academisation.
In the same month as the 2023 Ofsted inspection, a man in his 40s was assaulted and police were called to the school.
To manage the transition, Oxfordshire County Council established an Interim Governing Board, which operated until the Propeller Academy Trust was selected to take over the school in April 2024.
Since its inadequate rating, Woodeaton Manor School has experienced significant leadership changes, with six different headteachers appointed.
The terms of reference for a working group to review the academisation process were approved by the education and scrutiny committee last Friday, 27th February.
The panel, comprising six county councillors, will examine communications, processes, and actions undertaken by Oxfordshire County Council during the school's transition.
Councillor Bekah Fletcher proposed that the investigation should also assess the period preceding the Ofsted report.
The working group will conduct four private meetings to establish enquiry lines and consider written and oral submissions from interested parties.
While the panel cannot compel witness testimonies or unrestricted information, its findings will be compiled into a final report, which will be presented to the education scrutiny committee.
This report will be made public, although some sections may remain confidential.
A visit from Ofsted in March 2025 noted that the school had made some progress, although the special measures remained in place.
Propeller Academy Trust officially took over the school in October 2025.
Woodeaton Manor School ceased offering residential provision since July 2023.
To facilitate the school's relocation to a more accessible, modern facility, Oxfordshire County Council allocated £2.6 million in its recent budget.
Propeller Academy Trust has been contacted for comment.