David Livingstone Academy, located in Thornton Heath, Surrey, has undergone a remarkable transformation since its previous inspection in March 2017, where it was rated as requiring improvement. The recent inspection in June 2019 has resulted in an outstanding rating across all areas, including leadership and management, quality of teaching, personal development, behavior and welfare, outcomes for pupils, and early years provision. This significant improvement is attributed to the high expectations set by the leadership team, which includes the headteacher and executive headteacher, who have effectively fostered a culture of excellence within the school.
The leadership team has implemented a comprehensive professional development program that has been crucial in driving rapid improvements in teaching quality. Teachers demonstrate a deep understanding of how children learn, leading to well-planned lessons that ensure strong progress for all pupils. The school’s data indicates sustained high standards and improving outcomes, with pupils making exceptional progress across the curriculum. The quality of teaching is consistently outstanding, with a focus on mastery in subjects such as English and mathematics, where pupils are encouraged to engage deeply with the material.
Pupils’ personal development is prioritized, and they exhibit exemplary behavior, being polite, resilient, and considerate. The school has established a strong culture of safeguarding, ensuring that pupils feel secure and cared for. The early years provision is particularly noteworthy, providing children with an excellent start to their education. The curriculum is well-developed and meets the diverse needs of all pupils, although leaders have identified areas for further enrichment to enhance pupils’ experiences.
Governance at the school is highly effective, with governors actively holding leaders accountable for their actions and ensuring that the school’s resources are used effectively. The school has made good use of additional funding to support vulnerable pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, who also make excellent progress. The school’s commitment to promoting a strong set of values is evident in its emphasis on spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development, which is supported by various initiatives and programs.
Parents express overwhelming support for the school, appreciating the improvements made and the positive impact on their children’s learning. The school’s performance data reflects strong outcomes for all pupils, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds, who achieve at least as well as their peers. The proportion of pupils reaching expected standards in reading, writing, and mathematics is above national averages, and the school’s approach to phonics is particularly effective, ensuring that pupils develop strong reading skills.
The early years leader has actively sought best practices to ensure that the provision is tailored to meet the needs of each child, resulting in high levels of engagement and progress. Children are well-prepared for their transition to Year 1, with a focus on developing core skills in phonics and mathematics. The school fosters excellent relationships with parents, involving them in their children’s learning and ensuring a supportive environment.
Overall, David Livingstone Academy exemplifies a school that has successfully transformed its educational practices and outcomes, demonstrating a commitment to excellence in all areas. The relentless pursuit of high standards, effective leadership, and a supportive community contribute to the school’s outstanding status, making it a model for other institutions.
