Weston Favell Academy, located in Northampton, has undergone significant improvements since its previous inspection, achieving an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school is part of the Greenwood Academies Trust, which provides additional support and oversight. The leadership team, led by senior executive principal Todd Johnson, has worked diligently to enhance the quality of education, behavior, and personal development within the school community.
Pupils express positive sentiments regarding their educational experience, highlighting the academic and pastoral support they receive from staff. They acknowledge the school's progress in recent years, particularly in the quality of teaching and learning. The curriculum is well-structured and ambitious, catering for the needs of all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Notably, external examination results have shown marked improvement, especially in mathematics.
The school maintains high expectations for pupil behavior, resulting in a calm and orderly environment conducive to learning. Disruptions are minimal, and pupils demonstrate tolerance and respect towards one another. During breaks, students enjoy socializing in the spacious school grounds, and any incidents of bullying are addressed promptly by staff. The personal, social, and health education curriculum effectively supports pupils' broader development, equipping them with knowledge about British values, equality, and diversity. Additionally, students receive valuable guidance regarding future educational and career choices, with sixth-form students receiving tailored support to help them achieve their aspirations.
Despite the school's strengths, there are areas for improvement. While the curriculum has been developed to meet national standards, some lessons lack effective questioning techniques to assess pupil understanding. This can lead to missed opportunities for addressing misconceptions and deepening students' critical thinking. The school recognizes the need to embed routines for checking understanding and adapting lessons across the curriculum to enhance learning outcomes.
Furthermore, while the school offers some extracurricular activities, opportunities for pupils to engage in wider interests and responsibilities are limited. Students have expressed a desire for more chances to explore their talents and participate in memorable experiences outside the academic curriculum. The school is encouraged to expand these opportunities to support pupils' personal development further.
The multi-academy trust has played a crucial role in supporting the school's improvements, and this has been positively received by pupils and parents alike. Staff members report feeling proud to work at the school, appreciating the support provided for their professional development and well-being.
Safeguarding measures at Weston Favell Academy are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school has established a culture that prioritizes the welfare of students, with clear protocols in place to address any concerns.
In summary, Weston Favell Academy has made commendable progress in various aspects of its educational provision. The school is characterized by a positive learning environment, strong leadership, and a commitment to continuous improvement. By addressing the identified areas for development, the school can further enhance its effectiveness and provide an even richer educational experience for its pupils.
