Paddington Academy, located in London, has recently undergone an inspection that reaffirmed its status as an outstanding educational institution. The inspection, conducted on March 13 and 14, 2023, highlighted the school's exceptional quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth-form provision. The school has maintained its outstanding rating since its last inspection in October 2011, demonstrating a consistent commitment to excellence.
The inspection revealed that leaders and staff at Paddington Academy hold the highest expectations for all pupils. Teachers are dedicated to fostering a culture of high achievement, and the curriculum is designed to be ambitious and comprehensive. Pupils develop a profound understanding of their subjects over time, leading to exceptional academic outcomes. The sixth form offers a diverse range of A-level and vocational courses, ensuring that students have ample opportunities to pursue their interests and career aspirations.
Pupils express pride in their school, describing it as a welcoming community where they feel happy and safe. The conduct of students is exemplary, both in lessons and throughout the school environment. Incidents of bullying are rare, and when they do occur, staff address them promptly and effectively. The positive relationships between pupils and staff contribute to a supportive learning atmosphere.
Students actively engage in discussions and debates, demonstrating respect for differing viewpoints. The sixth-form students serve as role models for younger pupils, taking on responsibilities such as volunteering as teaching assistants. This fosters a sense of community and encourages leadership skills among students.
The school’s curriculum is well-structured and thoughtfully sequenced, allowing for a coherent progression of knowledge. For instance, the Year 7 English curriculum focuses on character exploration and writing conventions, building on prior knowledge from primary education. Leaders have adapted the curriculum to reflect the local context, ensuring that pupils gain a deep appreciation for the diverse community in which they live.
Staff members are well-equipped to deliver the curriculum effectively, utilizing their subject expertise to enhance learning. They emphasize the importance of subject-specific vocabulary and employ various strategies to assess pupil understanding. This includes insightful questioning to identify knowledge gaps and address misconceptions promptly.
Behavior across the school is exceptional, with pupils moving through the school in a calm and orderly manner. They greet each other and staff with professionalism and courtesy. The school prioritizes the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they receive appropriate support to access the curriculum alongside their peers.
Reading is a significant focus at Paddington Academy, with pupils encouraged to read widely and frequently. Staff identify pupils who struggle with reading early on and provide targeted support to help them improve. The extensive careers program offers pupils numerous opportunities to engage with employers and explore various career paths, including university visits and participation in careers fairs.
The provision for personal development is exemplary, with staff guiding pupils to understand important issues such as responsible social media use and active citizenship. Pupils participate in fundraising events, fostering a sense of community and social responsibility.
Overall, Paddington Academy exemplifies a commitment to high standards in education, personal development, and community engagement. The leadership team, staff, pupils, and parents share a collective ambition for success, ensuring that the school continues to thrive as a center of excellence in education. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a culture of vigilance embedded throughout the school, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils.
