South Nottinghamshire Academy is recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 23 and 24, 2022. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils are encouraged to embody the values of respect, kindness, and the willingness to try new things, referred to as the ‘SNA Way’. Students are organized into three houses, Aquitaine, Maine, and Rollo, which promotes a sense of belonging and pride among them. The school emphasizes the importance of relationships, with staff maintaining high expectations for pupil conduct, contributing to a safe and happy learning environment.
Pupils appreciate the inclusive atmosphere and the swift action taken by staff to address any instances of bullying. The school offers a broad curriculum, allowing students to choose from a wide range of subjects, with many pursuing the English Baccalaureate. The leadership team has focused on ensuring that pupils achieve high standards in their chosen subjects during key stages four and five. The curriculum is designed to build knowledge and skills progressively, particularly in mathematics and English, leading to strong academic outcomes.
While the school excels in many areas, there are challenges regarding the depth of learning in subjects not chosen for further study in Year 9. Limited lesson time can lead to rushed teaching, preventing some pupils from fully grasping the curriculum. Leaders are aware of this issue and have plans to address it. Teachers are knowledgeable and present information clearly, often using resources that align closely with pupils' learning needs. However, there are instances where retrieval practices are not effectively implemented, which can hinder the intended learning outcomes.
Pupils demonstrate a commitment to their education, with minimal disruption in lessons. When behavioral issues arise, teachers address them promptly, maintaining a calm and orderly environment. The school provides excellent support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they have access to the curriculum through tailored strategies. The reading recovery scheme has proven effective in improving reading ages for those at early stages of literacy.
In the sixth form, students exhibit maturity and serve as role models for younger peers. They engage in extended projects and volunteering opportunities, enhancing their applications for future endeavors, including university. Pupils in key stages three and four also benefit from personal development opportunities, exploring important topics such as British values and substance abuse risks. The school encourages participation in extracurricular activities, fostering a well-rounded educational experience.
The leadership team receives strong support from the Redhill Academy Trust, which provides ongoing training for teachers. This partnership is instrumental in driving improvements within the school. Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks, ensuring pupils feel secure and supported.
Despite the school's strengths, there are areas for improvement. Leaders must ensure that teachers have adequate curriculum time to teach subjects in depth, particularly in key stage three. Additionally, there is a need for consistent implementation of effective teaching strategies across all subjects to maximize pupil learning. Overall, South Nottinghamshire Academy continues to provide a good quality of education, with a commitment to enhancing the learning experience for all pupils.
