Norton Hill Academy, located in Midsomer Norton, Somerset, underwent an inspection on October 8 and 9, 2024. The school received commendable ratings across various categories, including good for the quality of education, outstanding for behavior and attitudes, outstanding for personal development, good for leadership and management, and outstanding for sixth-form provision. The headteacher, Gordon Green, leads the school, which is part of the Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership, overseen by CEO Alun Williams and chaired by Tony Wells.
The school fosters a culture of respect, understanding, and kindness, allowing pupils and students to thrive. High expectations are set for all learners, resulting in positive attitudes towards learning and hard work. This commitment to excellence is particularly evident in the sixth form, where students achieve high academic results. The school community actively promotes inclusivity, with pupils encouraged to speak out against injustice and report any incidents, knowing they will be addressed effectively.
Norton Hill Academy has established character traits that it encourages pupils to embrace, supported by a well-structured house system. The school offers an exceptional enrichment program, including various clubs that allow students to explore their interests and talents. Leadership roles are available for pupils, who feel their contributions are valued and that the school listens to their feedback, fostering a strong sense of pride in their institution.
The curriculum is thoughtfully crafted and sequenced, with a focus on what pupils learn and when. However, some subjects are still undergoing development to ensure they meet the high standards set by the rest of the curriculum. In the sixth form, students engage in evaluative and analytical learning, supported by high expectations and guidance for their studies. Teachers effectively assess pupil learning and address any gaps in knowledge, ensuring that all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, achieve well.
The school prioritizes early reading support, providing tailored assistance to meet individual needs. A strong reading culture is embedded, with initiatives such as a tutor reading program where older students support younger pupils. Attendance rates are high, attributed to diligent tracking and support for at-risk students. The school has a well-established hub for pupil welfare and behavior, offering intervention and guidance that students find valuable.
Norton Hill Academy prepares pupils exceptionally well for life in modern Britain through a comprehensive personal, social, and health education curriculum. This curriculum promotes respect and broad-mindedness, teaching students about relationships and consent in an age-appropriate manner. In the sixth form, students acquire essential life skills, including financial literacy, equipping them for independent living. The school emphasizes inclusivity, with pupils demonstrating a deep understanding of diversity through their behaviors and attitudes.
The careers program inspires pupils to make informed decisions about their future, providing knowledge about various career pathways and helping them present themselves confidently to potential employers. The school and trust invest in staff training to enhance expertise, and governors are well-equipped to challenge and support the school's leadership. Communication with parents, pupils, and staff is effective, contributing to a positive perception of the school's work.
The safeguarding arrangements at Norton Hill Academy are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all students. While the school excels in many areas, it recognizes the need to enhance certain subjects to achieve uniform high standards across the curriculum. Overall, Norton Hill Academy demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive and inclusive school community.
