The Milton Keynes Academy, located in Buckinghamshire, underwent an inspection on January 17 and 18, 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as requiring improvement, with specific areas such as the quality of education and behavior and attitudes also receiving the same rating. However, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth-form provision were rated as good. The school previously held a good inspection grade in October 2017.
Leaders at the academy are ambitious for their pupils, aiming for them to thrive and aspire to limitless futures. The curriculum is designed to engage students and prepare them for future educational and employment opportunities. Pupils benefit from visiting speakers and presentations, which enhance their learning experience. The school has established strong relationships with local businesses and external agencies, enriching the educational environment.
Pupils have access to a variety of extracurricular activities, and the introduction of a new house system has fostered positive relationships among students. The school emphasizes diversity and inclusivity, which is recognized and appreciated by the pupils. Staff members are dedicated to the welfare of the students, creating a supportive atmosphere.
The school day begins with an orderly line-up, setting a focused tone for learning. While most pupils exhibit good behavior, there are instances where some disrupt the learning environment. School leaders are proactive in addressing bullying and ensuring that pupils feel safe, although some students have expressed concerns about occasional bullying incidents.
Despite the challenges, school leaders are committed to improvement. They have established clear priorities and plans based on regular self-review activities. The leadership team has the capacity to drive the school forward, although behavior remains an area needing attention. The implementation of a new behavior system is showing promise in reducing disruptions, allowing teachers to focus more on student learning.
The curriculum is rich and interconnected, aiming to reflect the diverse backgrounds of the pupils. However, there are weaknesses in teaching practices, particularly in the consistent explanation of new concepts. Teachers are encouraged to use assessment information to identify gaps in knowledge, but this is not always effectively executed. As a result, some pupils are not achieving their full potential.
Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is inconsistent, and leaders are aware of this issue. They are taking steps to improve individual support plans and ensure they are effectively utilized in lessons. Reading is encouraged across the school, with dedicated time allocated to literacy lessons, particularly for younger pupils.
Attendance remains a concern, with too many pupils not attending regularly. The school is actively working with families to address barriers to attendance, especially in light of the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Attendance is improving in the sixth form, and overall attendance rates are on the rise.
The sixth form currently has a low number of students, but those enrolled benefit from good teaching and support. Teachers provide purposeful lessons, and students are guided in considering their future pathways. New teachers receive comprehensive training and support, which helps them adapt to the school environment.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with staff trained to report concerns and leaders taking timely actions to address them. Regular reviews and audits ensure that safeguarding practices remain robust, and the school collaborates with local agencies to promote pupil safety.
In summary, while The Milton Keynes Academy has several strengths, particularly in leadership and personal development, it faces challenges in behavior management, teaching consistency, and attendance. The school is on a path of improvement, with leaders committed to addressing these areas to enhance the overall educational experience for their pupils.
