Greig City Academy, located in Hornsey, London, has been recognized for its strong and supportive school community. The recent inspection conducted in November 2019 rated the school as good overall, with specific commendations in various areas. Pupils express pride in their school, feeling happy and safe, and appreciate the support they receive from teachers. The leadership team maintains high expectations for academic achievement, fostering a positive learning environment.
Pupils demonstrate calm and purposeful behavior, showing respect towards each other and their teachers. The school has a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying, which is addressed swiftly and effectively. Students engage actively in their learning, displaying confidence in discussions and a strong awareness of global issues. The school offers a wide range of after-school clubs and enrichment activities, enhancing pupils' personal development and overall school experience. Notable programs include sailing, robotics, and overseas trips, which provide unique opportunities for students.
The curriculum at Greig City Academy is broad and rich, allowing pupils and sixth-form students to explore various subjects and develop their interests. Leaders have implemented well-structured plans for teaching, particularly in core subjects like English, mathematics, and computing. Teachers possess strong subject knowledge and are enthusiastic about their teaching, regularly checking for understanding and addressing any difficulties pupils may encounter. This approach benefits all students, including those with special educational needs.
However, the inspection identified areas for improvement, particularly in the consistency of subject plans across all lessons, especially in science. This inconsistency can lead to gaps in pupils' understanding, hindering their ability to tackle more challenging work. While pupils are eager to learn and participate positively in lessons, addressing these gaps is essential for their academic growth.
The school excels in providing exceptional opportunities for personal development. The supportive ethos encourages pupils to grow in confidence and express themselves effectively. Sixth-form students have reported positively on their experiences, highlighting the support and opportunities available to them. The school promotes a wide array of extracurricular activities in sports, outdoor pursuits, and the arts, encouraging students to pursue their interests in various fields, including STEM subjects.
Pupils are well-informed about safety and responsibility, preparing them for life in modern Britain. The school offers clear guidance on careers and future pathways, helping students make informed decisions about their futures. However, attendance remains a challenge for some pupils, with leaders actively working to improve this aspect by collaborating with parents and carers.
The governing body is well-informed about the school’s operations and has a clear vision for its future. They ensure that leaders' decisions align with the best interests of the pupils. Staff feel supported in managing their workloads, contributing to a positive working environment.
The safeguarding arrangements at Greig City Academy are effective, with a culture of openness and support. Staff receive regular training to recognize and address safeguarding issues, ensuring that pupils feel safe and know whom to approach with concerns. Overall, while the school has many strengths, continued efforts are needed to address the identified areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring consistent implementation of teaching plans and enhancing attendance rates.
