Arden Academy, located in Knowle, Solihull, was inspected on 14 and 15 June 2022, and received an overall effectiveness rating of Good. The inspection highlighted the school's commitment to high standards, with senior leaders fostering an environment where both staff and students are encouraged to excel. Pupils enjoy attending the school, and the staff are dedicated to ensuring that students thrive academically and personally. The school offers a diverse enrichment program with over 70 activities, catering for various interests, including clubs for LGBTQ+ students, chess, music, and drama, which are well-attended and appreciated by the pupils.
The school environment is described as safe and welcoming, with pupils exhibiting friendly and courteous behavior. They know where to seek help if needed, and instances of bullying are addressed promptly by staff. The strong relationships between staff and students contribute to a positive atmosphere, often referred to as the Arden family. Parents and carers express high levels of satisfaction with the school, particularly valuing the pastoral support and opportunities for personal development.
The curriculum at Arden Academy is ambitious and designed to meet the needs of all pupils, including those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs and disabilities. Teachers are committed to individualizing their approach, ensuring that learning is tailored to each student's needs. While the curriculum is well-planned in most subjects, some areas require further development to enhance clarity and coherence. Teachers effectively adapt lessons based on pupils' prior knowledge, leading to high-quality work in subjects like English, mathematics, geography, and music. However, there are instances where some teachers do not fully consider the needs of pupils with special educational needs, which can result in lower-quality work and a loss of focus.
Assessment practices are generally effective, with teachers checking for understanding and adjusting their teaching accordingly. Nonetheless, there are occasions when assessments do not identify gaps in knowledge quickly enough, leading to persistent misunderstandings. The school provides numerous opportunities for pupils to engage in extracurricular activities, including performing arts and sports, which are highly valued by students. Leadership opportunities are available for all pupils, fostering a sense of responsibility and community.
The school promotes a love of reading, with initiatives encouraging pupils to read during tutor time and engage with visiting authors. Leaders are proactive in addressing any reading difficulties among students, ensuring that support is available when needed. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to recognize signs of distress and know how to report concerns. Leaders collaborate with external agencies to provide additional support to families when necessary.
In summary, Arden Academy demonstrates a strong commitment to academic excellence and personal development, creating a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils. While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all teaching staff consistently meet the diverse needs of all students and in enhancing assessment practices to address knowledge gaps more swiftly. The leadership team is motivated to continue improving the school and is responsive to feedback, ensuring that the school remains a positive place for learning and growth.
