North Kesteven Academy, located in North Hykeham, Lincolnshire, underwent an inspection on October 1 and 2, 2024. The inspection revealed that the quality of education at the school requires improvement, while behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership, and management, as well as sixth-form provision, were rated as good. The headteacher, Joanne Tunnicliffe, leads the school, which operates under a single academy trust overseen by a board of trustees chaired by Jonathon Sloan.
Pupils at North Kesteven Academy report high levels of happiness and maintain respectful relationships with one another and staff. The school fosters an inclusive culture based on mutual respect and tolerance, with staff dedicated to understanding and supporting students. However, recent outcomes indicate that many pupils are not achieving their full potential. While the curriculum has seen improvements, particularly in the sixth form, further efforts are needed to enhance the performance of students in key stages three and four.
The school has established effective routines that promote good behaviour, resulting in a calm and orderly environment. Both pupils and staff noted significant improvements in behaviour. The school also prioritizes personal development, focusing on the physical and mental well-being of students. The provision of excellent careers advice has led to nearly all pupils progressing to positive destinations in education, training, or employment.
North Kesteven Academy offers a broad and ambitious curriculum, with pupils in key stage three studying the national curriculum in full. In key stage four, all pupils can choose from English Baccalaureate subjects, and the number of students opting for these subjects has increased. Despite the relatively small sixth form, a wide range of academic and vocational qualifications is available. The school aims to ensure that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, can access the curriculum effectively.
However, the delivery of the curriculum is inconsistent. Teachers sometimes fail to explain new information clearly and do not always provide sufficient opportunities for pupils to practice or confirm their understanding before progressing. In the sixth form, students benefit from a more consistent curriculum delivery. Additionally, some teachers do not adequately check prior learning, which can lead to gaps in knowledge and misconceptions. When pupils produce poor-quality work, they may not receive the guidance needed to improve, hindering their overall learning.
Subject curriculums are well-designed, with important knowledge clearly identified and sequenced. As pupils advance through the school, the curriculum becomes increasingly challenging, particularly in the sixth form. Staff prioritize the needs of disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs, implementing routines that help students connect and apply new knowledge. Training is ongoing to ensure staff consistently utilize these routines in lessons.
The school places a strong emphasis on reading, quickly identifying gaps in pupils' reading knowledge and providing effective support. Pupils in key stage three participate in reading lessons aimed at enhancing fluency and vocabulary. Daily reading from engaging texts is a requirement for all students.
North Kesteven Academy also offers a comprehensive personal, social, and health education program, teaching pupils about safety and health. Opportunities for students to engage in school governance and support younger pupils are available, fostering a sense of community. The school provides various clubs for students to explore interests in the arts, sports, and other areas, including participation in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme for sixth-form students.
Efforts to improve attendance are evident, with personalized pastoral care and mental health support for students with previous attendance issues. The school prides itself on its inclusive culture, with a shared vision among staff and trustees to create a welcoming and safe environment. Significant improvements have been recognized under strong leadership, with a collective commitment to providing a high-quality education for all students. The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils.
