The Manor Academy, located in Mansfield Woodhouse, Nottinghamshire, has been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on January 30 and 31, 2024. Under the leadership of headteacher Katrina Kerry, the school is part of The Two Counties Trust, which is overseen by CEO Wesley Davies and a board of trustees chaired by Karen Potts. The school embodies values of ambition, teamwork, and honesty, which are reflected in the behavior and aspirations of both staff and students. The school aims to provide high-quality education and opportunities for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.
Students at The Manor Academy report feeling well-prepared for life in modern Britain, with a strong emphasis on respect for diversity. The school maintains high expectations for pupil behavior, and most students demonstrate good conduct. There are trusted adults available for students to discuss concerns, and instances of bullying are addressed promptly. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including clubs that cater to diverse interests, such as American football and girls' football. Educational trips enhance the learning experience, linking classroom studies to real-world contexts.
The curriculum at The Manor Academy is ambitious and designed to equip students with essential knowledge and critical thinking skills. The school has established clear learning pathways to help students grasp complex concepts. Most pupils develop a solid understanding of their subjects, and the sixth-form curriculum builds on prior learning. Teachers employ a consistent approach in lesson delivery, ensuring that students know what to expect. However, there are occasions when not all teachers rigorously check students' understanding, which can hinder deeper learning.
Reading is prioritized, with many students expressing enjoyment in reading activities. The school provides ample opportunities for engagement with literature, including reading assemblies and visits from authors. Support is available for students who struggle with reading, ensuring that all pupils can develop their literacy skills.
Pupils with special educational needs achieve well, receiving tailored support that allows them to learn alongside their peers. The school has effective procedures for identifying and addressing the needs of these students, and they benefit from regular mentoring. While most students behave well, a small number feel that behavior could improve in certain lessons.
The school actively promotes attendance through various strategies, including rewards and parental engagement. Although there has been some progress, attendance remains an area for improvement, particularly for vulnerable pupils who miss out on valuable educational experiences.
The personal, social, health, and economic education curriculum is well-structured, teaching students about healthy relationships and resilience. Pupils participate in community challenges and document their achievements, fostering a sense of responsibility and independence. The school also emphasizes career readiness, with an alumni network that connects current students with former pupils to discuss career pathways.
The Manor Academy is committed to building strong relationships with the local community, although parental feedback is mixed. Staff members express high levels of job satisfaction, appreciating efforts to reduce workload while maintaining educational quality. The school has effective safeguarding measures in place, ensuring a safe environment for all students.
In summary, The Manor Academy continues to provide a good quality of education, with a strong focus on ambition, respect, and community engagement. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in attendance and the consistency of understanding checks in lessons, the school is well-positioned to support its students in achieving their full potential.
