Shiphay Learning Academy, located in Torquay, Devon, underwent an inspection on 22 and 23 October 2024, resulting in a positive evaluation across various key areas. The school has shown significant improvement since its previous inspection, where it was rated as requiring improvement. The current inspection rated the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision as good. The Head of School, Kate Lee, leads the institution, which is part of the Riviera Education Trust, overseen by CEO Stewart Biddles and a board of trustees chaired by Jamie Parffrey.
The school has made commendable strides in enhancing the educational experience for its pupils, particularly focusing on those who are disadvantaged. The curriculum has been developed to be ambitious and is effectively implemented, allowing pupils to meet high expectations from an early age. The nurturing environment fosters positive relationships between staff and students, contributing to a sense of safety and belonging. Pupils are described as polite, respectful, and proud of their school community, which is supported by high-quality pastoral care.
Shiphay Learning Academy offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including clubs that cater to the performing arts and opportunities for residential trips, such as those to Dartmoor. These experiences enrich the curriculum and help broaden pupils' horizons. The school has identified essential knowledge across subjects, ensuring that learning begins strongly in the early years. Staff regularly assess what is working well and what requires further development, allowing for a clear understanding of curriculum implementation.
Despite the overall positive assessment, the inspection noted that a minority of subjects are still in the early stages of curriculum development. This has resulted in some gaps in pupils' knowledge, as the teaching in these areas is not yet as established as in others. The school is actively working to address these issues through regular training for staff, which enhances their expertise in delivering the curriculum effectively. Pupils benefit from a daily 'rewind' session that helps reinforce prior learning, contributing to their confidence and retention of knowledge.
The school has also improved its support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities since the last inspection. Early identification of needs ensures that these pupils receive appropriate assistance, and staff training has equipped teachers to make necessary adaptations for successful learning alongside their peers. Reading is prioritized, with a strong emphasis on developing a love for literature from the early years through engaging stories and phonics instruction. This approach has led to pupils becoming confident and fluent readers.
Behavioral expectations are clearly communicated through the school's golden rules, creating a calm and orderly environment conducive to learning. High attendance rates reflect the school's commitment to emphasizing the importance of regular school attendance. The school also promotes pupils' wider development through initiatives like 'Riviera 70,' which provides diverse experiences beyond academics, encouraging responsible citizenship and community involvement.
The safeguarding arrangements at Shiphay Learning Academy are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and supported. The inspection highlighted the need for continued focus on subjects that require further development and the importance of precise assessment to identify and address gaps in knowledge. Overall, Shiphay Learning Academy demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a quality education and fostering a supportive learning environment for all its pupils.
