Manchester Academy, located in Moss Side, Manchester, has undergone a recent inspection that has resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection took place on the 27th and 28th of September 2022, marking a significant improvement from its previous rating of requires improvement. The school serves a diverse community, with a significant number of pupils speaking English as an additional language. The academy has made notable strides in creating an inclusive environment where pupils feel safe, respected, and valued.
Pupils at Manchester Academy express happiness and a sense of belonging. They appreciate the support provided by their teachers, which contributes to their positive learning experiences. The school promotes respect and understanding among students, fostering a culture where differences in gender, race, and culture are celebrated. The leadership team has established high expectations for both learning and behavior, which pupils strive to meet. This has led to improvements in pupil achievement and behavior across the school.
The curriculum at Manchester Academy is ambitious and broad, allowing pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, to access a wide range of subjects. The school has seen an increase in the number of pupils opting to study the English Baccalaureate suite of subjects, although the proportion remains below the national average. Leaders have identified key knowledge that pupils need to learn in most subjects, and teachers are well-equipped to facilitate this learning. However, there are a few subjects where the curriculum design could be improved to enhance pupil learning outcomes.
Assessment strategies are effectively utilized by teachers to gauge pupil understanding and provide additional support when necessary. The school has prioritized reading, ensuring that all pupils, particularly those with special educational needs, receive the necessary support to improve their literacy skills. Subject leaders emphasize the importance of subject-specific vocabulary, which aids in pupils' comprehension and retention of knowledge.
The school has also made significant improvements in its personal development curriculum, teaching pupils about physical and mental health. However, some teachers have not received adequate training to deliver this curriculum effectively, which may hinder some pupils' learning experiences. The leadership team is aware of this and is working to address the training needs of staff.
Behaviour in the school is generally good, with few disruptions to learning. Leaders have implemented effective support systems for pupils who struggle with behavior management, resulting in a decrease in suspensions and improved attendance rates. The school has enhanced its careers guidance program, leading to more pupils successfully transitioning to further education and training.
Safeguarding measures at Manchester Academy are robust, with a strong culture of safety established throughout the school. Leaders ensure that staff are well-trained to recognize and respond to safeguarding concerns, and they maintain strong links with external agencies to support vulnerable pupils.
In summary, Manchester Academy has made commendable progress in various areas, including curriculum development, pupil support, and safeguarding. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in specific subjects and staff training for personal development, the overall environment at the school is positive, fostering both academic and personal growth for its pupils. The leadership team is committed to continuous improvement, ensuring that all pupils receive a high-quality education and the support they need to succeed.
