Forest Academy, located in Brandon, Suffolk, has undergone a significant transformation since its previous inspection, moving from a grade of Requires Improvement to an overall effectiveness rating of Good. The inspection, conducted on November 11 and 12, 2021, highlighted the positive experiences of pupils who express enjoyment in attending the school. They describe it as a happy environment where they feel safe and supported. The school’s mantra of being kind, safe, and responsible is well understood by the students, who are confident in reporting any concerns or issues, including instances of bullying, which they state are rare.
The quality of education at Forest Academy is rated as Good, with staff maintaining high expectations for both learning and behavior. Pupils are engaged and attentive, working collaboratively and showing respect for their peers and visitors. The curriculum is well-structured, with leaders having carefully considered its design to ensure that it meets the needs of all pupils. Teachers effectively deliver the curriculum, and there is a strong emphasis on ensuring that pupils cover the full content across subjects. The school has implemented a consistent approach to teaching phonics, which has proven effective in developing early reading skills.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are well supported, receiving the necessary adaptations to access the curriculum alongside their peers. The school promotes a love of reading, providing a variety of resources and individual reading programs to encourage literacy development. Additionally, pupils are offered numerous opportunities to explore their interests and talents through extracurricular activities, contributing to their overall personal development.
The leadership team at Forest Academy is cohesive and knowledgeable about the school’s strengths and areas for improvement. They have made significant strides in enhancing the educational experience since the last inspection. However, there are areas that require further attention. While the curriculum is strong, the development of pupils’ speaking and listening skills is still in its early stages. Some pupils lack confidence in these areas, which can hinder their overall learning experience. Leaders are encouraged to prioritize the enhancement of the speaking and listening curriculum to match the quality of other subjects.
The governing body, while new and relatively inexperienced, is actively engaged in understanding the school’s operations and ensuring that leaders’ actions lead to meaningful improvements. However, they are still in the process of developing a clear strategic vision for the school, which is essential for long-term success.
Safeguarding measures at Forest Academy are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to any concerns regarding pupil safety. The school maintains accurate records and acts promptly on any information received, ensuring that vulnerable pupils receive the necessary support. Pupils are educated on how to keep themselves safe, including safe internet practices and risk management.
Overall, Forest Academy has made commendable progress since its last inspection, creating a positive and supportive learning environment for its pupils. The school is well-positioned to continue its development, with strong leadership and a commitment to providing high-quality education. The focus on improving speaking and listening skills, along with the establishment of a strategic vision by the governing body, will be crucial in further enhancing the school’s effectiveness and ensuring that all pupils thrive.
