Hodgson Academy, located in Poulton-le-Fylde, Lancashire, has recently undergone its first inspection since becoming an academy. The inspection, conducted on November 30 and December 1, 2022, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good, with specific areas such as personal development receiving an outstanding rating. The school is characterized by a calm and orderly environment where pupils feel safe and valued. Positive relationships between staff and students contribute to a supportive learning atmosphere, fostering strong attitudes towards learning and a broad engagement with the curriculum.
Pupils at Hodgson Academy demonstrate kindness and respect towards one another, participating in initiatives like the Hodgson hello, which promotes a culture of inclusivity. The school encourages students to aspire to leadership roles and take pride in their achievements, as evidenced by the wearing of achievement badges. The commitment to preventing bullying is evident, with staff effectively addressing any incidents that arise. The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and various clubs, which enhance pupils' personal development and well-being.
The leadership team at Hodgson Academy has high aspirations for all pupils, continually refining the curriculum to ensure it is ambitious and inclusive. Most pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, achieve well, particularly at key stage four, where nearly all students follow the English Baccalaureate subjects. The curriculum is well-organized, with teachers providing opportunities for pupils to revisit and reinforce their learning. However, in a small number of subjects, the curriculum development is less robust, leading to some gaps in pupils' knowledge and understanding.
Teachers are generally well-supported in developing their subject knowledge, and they select appropriate activities to facilitate effective learning. Nonetheless, in areas where the curriculum is still evolving, there are instances where misconceptions are not addressed promptly, which can hinder pupils' progress. The school prioritizes reading, ensuring that pupils who struggle with literacy receive the necessary support to access the curriculum fully. This focus on reading is complemented by efforts to develop pupils' communication skills and subject-specific vocabulary.
Pupils exhibit good behavior in lessons and throughout the school, with minimal disruption to learning. The leadership team is dedicated to preparing students for life in modern Britain, promoting themes of equality and tolerance across the curriculum. The school provides a comprehensive careers education program, helping pupils make informed decisions about their futures through strong links with local employers.
Staff at Hodgson Academy express pride in their work environment, appreciating the attention given to their well-being and workload by school leaders. The governing body is actively involved in supporting and challenging the leadership team to ensure continuous improvement. Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks, ensuring that pupils feel secure and supported.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. In certain subjects, leaders need to finalize curriculum development to ensure all pupils achieve their potential. Additionally, addressing gaps in knowledge and misconceptions more swiftly will enhance the overall learning experience. Hodgson Academy is committed to ongoing development, striving to provide an excellent education for all its pupils.
