Serlby Park Academy, located in Bircotes, Doncaster, is an all-through school that serves students from ages three to sixteen. The recent inspection conducted on October 10 and 11, 2023, concluded that the school is performing well across various aspects, achieving a rating of good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school is part of the Delta Academies Trust, which provides additional support and oversight.
The school is committed to its vision of changing lives, focusing on helping students and their families navigate challenges. Most students enjoy attending school and appreciate the support from staff, although attendance remains an area for improvement, as some students do not attend as frequently as they should. The positive attitudes of students contribute to a focused learning environment, with low levels of disruption reported during lessons. Students generally behave well and feel safe, with a supportive atmosphere evident during social times.
The early years provision is particularly strong, with children quickly developing concentration and confidence. They engage in a variety of activities that promote learning in literacy and numeracy. The school places a strong emphasis on reading, ensuring that children in the nursery and early stages of education receive the necessary support to develop their reading skills. Older students also have opportunities to enjoy reading, with initiatives in place to foster a love for literature.
The curriculum has recently been reviewed and expanded, particularly in key stage four, to include more vocational and practical subjects. This ensures that the curriculum is relevant to the needs of the students and the community. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and utilize effective resources and questioning techniques to enhance student learning. However, some curriculum improvements are still in the early stages, and further time is needed to assess their impact on student knowledge retention.
The school is attentive to the needs of students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), providing them with opportunities to engage with the same curriculum as their peers. While some parents express satisfaction with the support their children receive, others have concerns about the adequacy of this support. The school recognizes the need to improve communication with parents of children with SEND to ensure they are well-informed and involved in their children's education.
Behavior among students is generally good, with a focus on positive reinforcement for effort and attitude. The school has seen a reduction in suspensions, indicating progress in behavior management. The personal development program addresses physical and mental health, teaching students about healthy relationships and respect for diversity. While the careers education provision is well-developed, there is a recognized need for more opportunities for work experience.
Despite the positive aspects, the school faces challenges, particularly in ensuring consistent collaboration between primary and secondary phases. This disconnect can hinder the seamless transition for students. The school is committed to addressing persistent absenteeism, especially among disadvantaged students and those with SEND, to ensure all students benefit from their education.
Overall, Serlby Park Academy is making significant strides in providing quality education and support for its students. The leadership team is dedicated to continuous improvement, and with ongoing efforts to enhance communication and collaboration, the school is well-positioned to further its mission of transforming lives through education.
