The Linden Academy, located in Luton, Bedfordshire, has recently undergone an inspection on June 18 and 19, 2024, and has been rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The principal, Michelle Woodhams, and co-principal, Jordan Campbell, lead the school, which is part of The Shared Learning Trust. The trust is overseen by CEO Catherine Barr and a board of trustees chaired by David Sheridan.
Pupils at The Linden Academy are well cared for, with strong relationships among staff and students that foster a safe and respectful environment. The school has made significant strides in improving pupil outcomes in national assessments, with students responding positively to high expectations and effective teaching. From early years, children exhibit enthusiasm for learning, understanding the importance of effort and practice. They are encouraged to learn from their mistakes, which builds their confidence to explore new challenges. Older students benefit from guidance that encourages them to push beyond their comfort zones, resulting in attentive behaviour in lessons and orderly movement around the school.
The school offers a broad range of opportunities for pupils to expand their horizons, including trips, visitors, and clubs. The trust has worked diligently to enhance the curriculum and teaching effectiveness, with trustees maintaining close oversight and investing in staff training and resources. While some subject leaders are new to their roles, they are committed to embedding high-quality teaching practices. However, there are instances where subject leaders may not quickly identify which teachers or pupils require additional support, which can delay necessary changes.
The curriculum at The Linden Academy is ambitious and well-structured, clearly outlining the knowledge progression in each subject. Teachers are trained to implement the recently introduced 'Linden Way,' regularly checking pupils' retention of important knowledge. They ensure that all students receive ample practice with new skills, from play-based learning in early years to more complex tasks for older pupils. Most teachers effectively assess pupil understanding and adjust their teaching accordingly, although there are occasional lapses where learning checks are not as thorough, leading to gaps in knowledge.
The school has successfully improved early reading instruction, with trained staff who closely monitor pupils' phonics knowledge. This systematic approach helps all students, including those who join at different points, to develop their reading skills rapidly. The school also effectively identifies and supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they can access the curriculum and make positive progress.
Leaders prioritize attendance, recognizing its importance for learning. Their efforts have led to significant improvements in attendance rates, as they work closely with families to address challenges. The school's behaviour policy, known as the 'Linden Law,' promotes good behaviour and helps new pupils integrate smoothly into the supportive school culture.
The school is dedicated to providing a rich array of opportunities that foster aspiration and help pupils discover their interests and talents, contributing to their development as well-rounded citizens. The inclusive environment celebrates diversity, ensuring that all pupils feel welcome.
While the school has made commendable progress, there are areas for improvement. Some subject leaders need to enhance their skills in identifying and addressing weaker aspects of provision. Additionally, teachers should consistently utilize learning checks to inform their planning and adapt their teaching to better support pupil learning. Overall, The Linden Academy demonstrates a strong commitment to providing quality education and fostering a positive learning environment for all its pupils.
