Maltby Academy is a larger-than-average secondary school located in Rotherham, South Yorkshire. The school has received a Good rating in its recent inspection, which took place on April 26 and 27, 2022. The inspection evaluated various aspects of the school, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth-form provision, all of which were rated as good. The school has a diverse student body, with a higher proportion of disadvantaged pupils compared to the national average.
The academy fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment where pupils get along well with each other and staff. The school promotes respect for differences and has effective measures in place to address bullying, which is reported to be rare. Pupils feel safe and secure, thanks to the strong relationships they have with staff who are attentive to their needs. The behavior of pupils in lessons is commendable, as they engage actively in their learning, ask questions, and support one another. Teachers maintain high expectations, and pupils are motivated to meet these standards.
Maltby Academy offers an ambitious curriculum that helps pupils understand their local area and the wider world. The school provides a variety of extracurricular activities, particularly in the arts, which many pupils are passionate about. Sixth-form students also benefit from enrichment opportunities, such as e-sports. The curriculum is designed to deepen and broaden pupils' knowledge, with leaders working closely with local primary schools to ensure continuity in learning.
Teachers are skilled in explaining new concepts and breaking down complex ideas into manageable steps. They are attentive to the needs of pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that all students can access the curriculum effectively. Regular feedback is provided to pupils, helping them to identify and address gaps in their knowledge. However, there are instances where some pupils have not yet developed a secure understanding of key content, indicating a need for teachers to prioritize essential knowledge more effectively.
The school places a strong emphasis on personal development, teaching pupils about safety, health, and informed decision-making. The life skills curriculum is well-planned, and pupils appreciate the relevance of what they learn. They are taught about citizenship, democracy, and current affairs in a balanced manner, which equips them with knowledge about political topics. The school also provides high-quality career guidance tailored to individual needs, helping pupils make informed choices about their future.
While attendance has improved, there remains a small group of pupils whose attendance is not sufficient, which can hinder their learning. Leaders are focused on addressing this issue and supporting parents in encouraging regular school attendance. The safeguarding arrangements at Maltby Academy are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to risks that pupils may face. The school has established a strong safeguarding culture, ensuring that pupils feel comfortable discussing concerns.
Overall, Maltby Academy is a positive environment for both pupils and staff, with leaders actively seeking to reduce workload and provide high-quality training. The school is committed to maintaining high standards and continues to work on improving the quality of education and attendance for all pupils.
