Kibworth Mead Academy, located in Leicester, has undergone significant improvements since its previous inspection, moving from an inadequate rating to a good overall effectiveness rating. The inspection, conducted on February 27 and 28, 2024, highlighted the positive relationships between staff and pupils, emphasizing the commitment of the staff to the education and well-being of their students. The school has established effective safeguarding arrangements, ensuring that pupils feel safe and supported.
The leadership team, under Principal Steve Piggot, has a clear and ambitious vision for the school, promoting values of hard work, kindness, and pride. These values are reflected in the positive attitudes of the majority of pupils towards their education and school life. The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, clubs, and leadership opportunities, which contribute to the development of pupils' confidence and character. Feedback from parents and carers has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the staff for their support and communication.
The curriculum at Kibworth Mead Academy is ambitious and well-structured, allowing pupils to build knowledge and understanding over time. Teachers effectively utilize their subject knowledge and assessment strategies to enhance learning. However, there are instances where the curriculum implementation is inconsistent, with some lessons not adequately tailored to meet the diverse needs of all learners. This inconsistency can lead to some pupils not achieving their full potential.
The school has made strides in promoting a love of reading, with staff modeling good reading habits and providing regular opportunities for pupils to engage with texts. Support is readily available for those who struggle with reading, ensuring that all pupils can develop their skills. The provision for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities has also improved, with accurate identification of needs and appropriate adaptations in teaching. Nonetheless, there remains room for further enhancement in adapting the curriculum to fully meet the needs of these pupils.
Behaviour in the school is generally good, with most pupils demonstrating positive conduct in lessons and during transitions. However, some pupils have reported instances of low-level disruption, indicating that the behaviour management strategies are not consistently applied by all staff. The school is working to address this issue to ensure a conducive learning environment for all.
The personal development curriculum equips pupils with essential knowledge about safety, relationships, and online conduct. The school effectively prepares pupils for their future steps, providing ample opportunities for career advice and guidance. The leadership team is focused on continuous improvement, utilizing a robust system of checks to identify strengths and areas for development. The support from The Mead Educational Trust has been beneficial, with staff receiving high-quality professional development and collaborative opportunities with other schools.
Overall, Kibworth Mead Academy has made commendable progress since its last inspection, creating a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils. The school is committed to maintaining high standards and addressing the areas identified for improvement, ensuring that all pupils receive a quality education that prepares them for future success.
