Ofsted Reports

Wellacre Academy remains a ‘good’ school following the Section 8 Ofsted inspection on 21 and 22 June 2022. We are very proud that inspectors concluded that Wellacre students are ‘confident and polite…feel cared for, happy and safe at school.’

We are pleased that many significant strengths were noted during the visit; with the views of inspectors aligned with our own self-evaluation.

Staff and students work hard every day to maintain a thriving school environment which is safe, welcoming and inclusive for all, so it is satisfying that the report states: 

• ‘Pupils arrive to lessons on time and ready to learn. They behave sensibly and are keen to develop new knowledge. Students understand that leaders have high expectations of their behaviour…… pupils behave well around the school and in their lessons….Their learning is not disrupted by poor behaviour in lessons.’ 

• ‘Pupils learn about a range of risks to their safety and how to avoid them. They are confident in seeking help from staff when they need it.’

• ‘Leaders make sure that staff are trained and kept up to date with any risks that pupils may face. Staff know how to spot the signs that pupils may be at risk of harm. They are vigilant and report concerns quickly. Leaders make sure that any concerns about pupils’ safety and well-being are acted on promptly…….Leaders quickly identify whether pupils require additional support from external agencies. They ensure that pupils get the timely help that they need.’

As a school community, we are aspirational for our students so that they are confident, knowledgeable and skilful. Consequently, we are proud to note that the inspection report states: 

• ‘All pupils benefit from the wealth of clubs that leaders and staff provide. Pupils flourish through their participation in activities each week, such as eco-activities, cadets and a variety of community projects….More than one hundred pupils enjoy their roles as pupil leaders.’

• ‘Leaders provide pupils, including those who are disadvantaged and those with SEND, with a rich range of activities that support their personal development. Pupils told inspectors that clubs and activities provide them with beneficial learning.’

• ‘Pupils also receive clear and impartial careers advice and guidance.’

We are all committed to ensuring that we provide the right challenge and support at the right time for our students and staff. It is, therefore, encouraging that the inspection team noted:

• ‘Leaders quickly identify any pupils who find reading difficult. Skilled staff provide effective support for this group of pupils so they catch up quickly in their reading. Additionally, staff provide pupils in all year groups with meaningful opportunities to read regularly and widely. This helps pupils to become more confident readers.’

• ‘Leaders provide pupils, including those who are disadvantaged and those with SEND, with a rich range of activities that support their personal development. Pupils told inspectors that clubs and activities provide them with beneficial learning.’

We were very honest with the inspection team that significant changes to the curriculum have had to be made since April 2021. Ofsted will return to Wellacre for a full Section 5 inspection over the next 12-18 months. In the meantime, this gives us a welcome opportunity to further embed our ambitious curriculum developments so that: 

• All students will know and remember more over time

• Activities chosen in all curriculum areas are well matched to the needs of all students 

• Teaching moves on when all students are ready.