Walton Academy, located in Grantham, Lincolnshire, was inspected on November 2 and 3, 2022, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school demonstrates a commitment to its core values of being ready, respectful, and responsible, which most pupils strive to embody in their daily activities. Pupils express enjoyment in attending school and appreciate the quality of education provided, attributing their positive experiences to the dedication of staff and leaders who support their academic success.
The learning environment at Walton Academy is welcoming and orderly, with pupils exhibiting good behavior. Reports indicate that bullying is infrequent, and when it does occur, staff address it promptly. Pupils feel safe and know they can turn to various staff members for support. The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports and performing arts, which help pupils develop leadership skills and confidence. The careers education provided is of high quality, effectively preparing pupils for future educational and employment opportunities.
The curriculum at Walton Academy is ambitious and meets national standards, catering for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Curriculum plans are well-structured, allowing pupils to build on their prior knowledge logically. For instance, in English lessons, pupils review their understanding of Shakespeare, demonstrating effective knowledge retention. Most teachers utilize assessment strategies effectively to check understanding and reinforce learning, although there are instances where assessments do not fully identify gaps in knowledge.
While most teachers deliver the curriculum effectively, there are occasions when the work set does not align well with pupils' abilities and prior knowledge. Leaders are proactive in identifying pupils who struggle with reading and provide necessary support to enhance their fluency. The school has implemented a communication strategy focusing on reading, oracy, and numeracy, although this initiative is still in its early stages.
The sixth-form provision is well-received, with students enjoying their courses and the supportive feedback from teachers. They engage in mentoring younger pupils and participate in various volunteer opportunities, contributing positively to the school community. The personal development program is robust, covering essential topics such as physical and mental health, relationships, and sex education. However, there is a need for further development in teaching British values and understanding of different faiths and cultures.
Governance at Walton Academy is strong, with knowledgeable governors who hold leaders accountable while providing effective support. Staff express pride in their work environment, noting that leaders consider workload when implementing policies. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of safety and well-trained staff who understand their responsibilities.
To improve, the school needs to enhance its personal development program to ensure it is well-planned and sequenced, enabling pupils to retain knowledge about British values and other cultures. Additionally, some teachers must ensure that the content taught is appropriately challenging for all pupils to maximize their learning potential. Overall, Walton Academy is a good school that provides a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils.
