Ofsted report for Calderdale school where pupils 'behave well' and are 'positive and respectful'
Pupils feel safe and enjoy going to a Calderdale school but some improvements are needed, says Ofsted.
Burnley Road Academy, in Mytholmroyd, has an early years curriculum which is well planned and takes account for the mixed age group class, said the education watchdog in a report following its latest inspection.
Leaders quickly and accurately identify any pupils with additional needs and the training for staff who offer one-to-one support is particularly effective, said the report.
"As a result, some pupils with the highest level of need make good progress from their starting points,” it added.
Leaders know the pupils and their families well, said the report, and the school has developed an appropriate and coherent personal development programme.
"Pupils typically enjoy coming to school. They feel safe,” the report said.
"Pupils know they have trusted adults to share concerns with if need be. Pupils are positive and respectful to each other and adults.
"Pupils behave well across the school. Most pupils enjoy learning.
"Bullying is rare. When it does happen, it is dealt with effectively.”
But Ofsted has identified four areas that “need attention” – achievement; attendance; curriculum and teaching; and leadership and governance.
Its report said teaching of the curriculum is “inconsistent across the school”.
"Pupils, including those who are disadvantaged, do not achieve well at the end of Key Stage 2. Not all pupils are well prepared for their next steps,” it said.
"Pupils' achievement in national tests show that they do not achieve as well as their peers nationally.”
The reports said pupils' attendance is below national averages but improving attendance is a priority for school leaders.
The school and the trust is it part of - Pennine Alliance Learning Trust – have experienced “significant turbulence” in the past few years, says Ofsted, but a new headteacher has been appointed and a new senior leadership structure set up.
"The trust and the school are currently receiving support from another trust,” said the report. “This support is helping to ensure that systems and structures within the school run effectively.
“Staff now have access to the training they need to help them to improve the work of the school.
"Leaders make decisions in the best interest of the pupils.
"There is a commitment from leaders to continue to improve the areas of the school that fall short of the expected standard.”
Head of school Veronica Walker said: "Whilst we know there is still work to do, we are pleased that the report recognises so many of the things that make Burnley Road Academy special.
"We are particularly proud that inspectors recognised our caring and inclusive culture, the positive behaviour of our pupils and the strong relationships that exist between children, staff and families.
"As a small community school, our children are at the heart of everything we do. This report reflects the hard work and dedication of our staff, governors, pupils and families, and I would like to thank everyone for their support.
"The report also acknowledges the improvements that are already underway. We have a clear understanding of our priorities and are ambitious for the future.
"We look forward to continuing our journey and ensuring every child receives the very best education and opportunities."