The UCL Academy, located on Adelaide Road in London, has recently undergone an inspection on the 22nd and 23rd of May 2024, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. This marks a significant improvement from its previous inspection, which rated the school as requiring improvement. The principal, Simon McBride, leads the school, which operates as a sponsored single academy trust overseen by a board of trustees chaired by Lucie Green. The executive principal, Gary Moore, also plays a crucial role in the school's management.
The school is characterized by its inclusive and welcoming environment, fostering high aspirations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is ambitious, broad, and balanced, leading to commendable achievements in public examinations, particularly in English and mathematics. Pupils generally exhibit good behavior throughout the school, although there are instances where some lose focus during lessons. Staff actively promote the importance of equality and do not tolerate discriminatory language.
Students benefit from a diverse range of extracurricular activities integrated into the school curriculum, including Latin, samba, fencing, meditation, and jewelry making. The sixth form is particularly well-regarded, with students expressing satisfaction with their educational experiences and feeling well-prepared for future endeavors, whether in employment, further education, or training. Pupils report feeling safe at school, with access to trusted adults for support regarding any concerns. Recent improvements in behavior have been noted, although school leaders acknowledge the need for ongoing efforts to embed higher expectations for pupil conduct.
The school excels in establishing a rich and relevant curriculum, ensuring that all pupils, including those with SEND, achieve well. Almost all pupils study a modern foreign language at GCSE, and the art department has developed strong links with community arts organizations. The sixth form offers a wide array of A-level subjects, providing robust support for students' academic and personal development. Staff effectively identify pupils with SEND and implement a variety of support measures promptly.
The curriculum is logically structured, with essential subject knowledge taught coherently. Teachers enhance pupils' understanding by providing context for the topics studied. For instance, in English, pupils learn about the Victorian poor law while studying Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol. However, there are occasions when teachers do not sufficiently check pupils' understanding, leading to gaps in learning and misconceptions that may hinder future progress.
Pupils requiring additional reading support receive targeted assistance, including those new to learning English. The school promotes a culture of reading for pleasure. Leaders have raised expectations for pupil behavior, and while lessons typically run smoothly, there are instances where behavior management is inconsistent. The school has implemented strategies to address the behavior of a small number of pupils who do not meet these expectations.
Attendance levels had declined in the previous academic year, prompting a renewed focus on the importance of regular attendance. Collaborative efforts with families and agencies have resulted in a significant reduction in persistent absenteeism. The school prepares pupils well for life in modern Britain through a carefully designed personal, social, and health education curriculum. Pupils participate in visits to local points of interest, broadening their cultural experiences, and receive high-quality careers guidance, including work experience opportunities.
Governors demonstrate a strong understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement, balancing their responsibilities to support staff well-being with the goal of school improvement. Staff appreciate the positive culture fostered by new leadership. The safeguarding arrangements in place are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. Overall, the UCL Academy is making commendable strides in providing quality education and support for its students.
