Nene Park Academy, located in Peterborough, is a secondary school that has been recognized as a good institution following its recent inspection on October 11 and 12, 2023. The principal, Robin Grover, leads the school, which is part of the Meridian Trust, overseen by CEO Mark Woods and a board of trustees chaired by Shirley Jamieson. The school serves a diverse student body of 1,451 pupils, including 267 in the sixth form, and offers a broad curriculum designed to meet the needs of all students.
The inspection revealed that the majority of pupils are happy and well-supported at Nene Park Academy. Tailored provisions such as SOCA and ACE cater to students with specific social, emotional, and mental health needs, ensuring they receive the necessary support to thrive. The house system in place fosters a sense of community, providing students with consistent points of contact for support, which contributes to their overall well-being and confidence in voicing concerns.
Pupils are aware of the high expectations regarding their academic performance and attendance, and they generally respond positively to the engaging curriculum offered. While most students achieve well, there are instances where the quality of their work does not fully reflect their learning. The school enhances the curriculum through trips and visits, which enrich the educational experience and provide valuable real-world context.
Behavior among pupils is commendable, with a new approach to behavior management that emphasizes listening to student feedback. This has fostered an environment of respect and tolerance, with the school actively promoting anti-bullying initiatives. Most students feel that bullying is not a significant issue, and the school's STOP approach effectively addresses any incidents that do arise.
The curriculum is well-structured, with clear plans that outline essential knowledge for students. School leaders ensure that these plans are implemented effectively, allowing pupils to gain a comprehensive understanding of various subjects. The school also emphasizes professional development for teachers, equipping them with the skills necessary to support student learning. However, there is a need for improvement in ensuring that the quality of work produced by students consistently reflects their learning depth.
In the sixth form, students benefit from a range of vocational and academic courses, receiving personalized guidance to help them navigate their future pathways. The support for pupils with special educational needs is tailored to individual requirements, ensuring they can access the curriculum and achieve their potential.
The school has made significant strides in improving behavior and attendance, resulting in minimal lost learning time. The environment is calm and orderly, with a focus on addressing the root causes of behavioral issues through a therapeutic approach. While the school has made efforts to engage parents in addressing concerns, some parents still express dissatisfaction with how issues, particularly bullying, are resolved.
Nene Park Academy offers a variety of personal development opportunities, including clubs and partnerships with local organizations, which allow students to explore their interests and talents. The school promotes an understanding of different cultures and beliefs through a well-planned PSHE curriculum.
The governance structure is effective, with the local academy council providing both challenge and support to school leaders. Staff report positively on the consideration given to their workload and well-being, which enables them to focus on student success. Overall, Nene Park Academy continues to be a good school, with clear areas for improvement identified, particularly in ensuring consistent expectations for student work and enhancing communication with parents regarding bullying concerns.
