Queen’s Park Academy, located in Bedford, Bedfordshire, underwent an inspection on May 4 and 5, 2022, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has made significant progress since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good.
Pupils at Queen’s Park Academy feel part of a supportive and welcoming community. They adhere to the school’s rules of being safe, kind, and ready to learn, which contributes to a positive atmosphere in both lessons and playtime. Instances of bullying are rare, and pupils express confidence in their teachers’ ability to resolve any issues that arise. The school fosters a culture where pupils are eager to excel and actively participate in their learning journey. From Nursery through Year 6, students learn to collaborate effectively, and those with special educational needs and disabilities receive tailored support to ensure their success.
The curriculum at Queen’s Park Academy is well-structured and designed to meet the diverse needs of its pupils. Leaders have implemented a coherent curriculum that begins in the early years, ensuring that children acquire the necessary knowledge and skills for future learning. For instance, Reception pupils learn about their local area and basic map skills, preparing them for geography in Year 1. Most subjects are taught effectively, with teachers regularly assessing understanding and adapting their instruction as needed. This approach allows pupils to revisit and reinforce their learning, enhancing retention and comprehension.
Pupils with special educational needs have access to a broad curriculum, with additional support provided for those with more complex needs. The school’s phonics program is well-planned, enabling children to make good progress in reading from the early years. Older pupils demonstrate enthusiasm for reading and are exposed to a variety of authors during storytime.
Behavior in the school is commendable, with established routines that promote a focused learning environment. Pupils are encouraged to manage their emotions, and positive relationships between staff and students are evident throughout the school. While most pupils enjoy attending school, a notable minority struggle with regular attendance, which impacts their learning. Leaders are actively working with families and external agencies to address attendance issues.
The school offers various extracurricular activities, including sports and arts, allowing pupils to explore their interests and talents. Initiatives like the breakfast club and the daily mile help pupils start their day positively. The school council provides opportunities for older pupils to take on responsibilities, fostering a sense of citizenship and community involvement.
Safeguarding measures at Queen’s Park Academy are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to concerns. Leaders maintain close relationships with families and monitor vulnerable pupils regularly. The school’s commitment to pupil well-being is evident, with staff checking in on students daily and providing support as needed.
Despite the overall positive findings, the inspection identified areas for improvement. In a few subjects, the curriculum is not yet fully established, and leaders need to enhance training and monitoring processes to ensure consistent high standards across all subjects. Additionally, persistent absence remains a challenge for some pupils, and leaders are encouraged to refine their strategies to improve attendance further. Overall, Queen’s Park Academy demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a quality education and fostering a nurturing environment for its pupils.
