Stanchester Academy is a small secondary school located in East Stoke, Somerset, where pupils report feeling happy and settled. The school environment is described as calm and friendly, with students moving sensibly around the building and adhering to school rules. They demonstrate courtesy towards visitors and show a strong focus on their work, responding positively to teachers' instructions. Pupils express a sense of safety at school, knowing that staff care about their well-being and that there is always an adult available to talk to if they encounter problems. Instances of bullying are reported to be rare, and students are confident that any issues will be addressed promptly by their teachers.
The school provides a wide range of extracurricular opportunities that engage most pupils, with many participating in activities such as rehearsals for a production of 'Mary Poppins' during the inspection. The quality of education is generally good across most subjects, although leaders are actively working to address weaknesses, particularly in English. The school enjoys strong support from parents, carers, and the local community.
The principal has a clear vision for the school and has successfully integrated a comprehensive personal development program into the pupils' classroom experiences. The curriculum is well-structured, ensuring clarity in the content and sequence of learning across various subjects. For instance, in modern languages, the curriculum is effectively developed, leading to increasingly ambitious work for pupils. Other subjects, including mathematics and science, are also showing improvement, resulting in better knowledge retention and application among students.
However, the English curriculum requires further development, as it is not as well-planned or sequenced as in other subjects. Recent staffing changes and improved leadership aim to better meet the needs of all pupils, particularly in enhancing literacy skills. The current approach has not sufficiently supported struggling or reluctant readers, and there is a need for teachers to emphasize accurate spelling. While improvements are underway, leaders recognize the necessity of embedding literacy across all subjects.
Teachers provide appropriate support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring their work is tailored to their individual needs. Disadvantaged pupils also receive the necessary assistance to succeed. Overall, pupils display enthusiasm for learning and exhibit good behavior, with a notable reduction in exclusions. The school's initiatives foster active and responsible citizenship among students, encouraging them to think independently and respect diverse opinions.
The careers program effectively prepares pupils for future pathways, helping them understand the world of work and potential post-Year 11 options. School leaders are aware of the areas needing improvement and have established plans to enhance the school's performance. Governors are also working to deepen their understanding of the curriculum to hold leaders accountable more effectively.
The safeguarding arrangements at Stanchester Academy are effective, with a full-time safeguarding lead as part of the leadership team. Appropriate pre-recruitment checks are conducted to ensure staff safety, and regular training equips staff to recognize local risks to pupils. The school fosters a strong safeguarding culture, ensuring that vulnerable pupils receive the necessary support.
In summary, Stanchester Academy is a well-regarded institution that provides a supportive and engaging learning environment. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in the English curriculum and literacy development, the school is committed to continuous enhancement and the well-being of its pupils.
