King’s Leadership Academy in Liverpool has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 13 and 14, 2023. Under the leadership of Principal Scott Cordon, the school is part of The Great Schools Trust, which provides additional oversight and support. The school’s mission focuses on raising aspirations for all students, fostering a strong sense of character, self-belief, and determination among pupils. The environment is described as purposeful, with warm and respectful relationships between staff and students, contributing to a sense of safety and happiness within the school community.
Pupils at King’s Leadership Academy exhibit confidence and good manners, often greeting visitors with a handshake. They generally demonstrate positive behavior and are focused on their learning during lessons. The school maintains high expectations for academic achievement, offering a bold curriculum that is relevant to the local context. This curriculum is designed to benefit all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school has seen an increase in expectations regarding what students can achieve academically, which has positively impacted their learning experiences.
The school provides a variety of extracurricular activities that enhance students' self-confidence and resilience, including outdoor pursuits and residential visits. The curriculum is broad, balanced, and challenging, with many students studying the English Baccalaureate suite of subjects. Since the last inspection, there has been a strong emphasis on refining the curriculum, ensuring that essential knowledge is clearly mapped out for students. This approach has resulted in pupils valuing their learning experiences.
King’s Leadership Academy serves a diverse student population, with a significant increase in enrollment since the last inspection. However, some students, particularly in Year 11, have not achieved outcomes in line with their peers nationally in external examinations. This discrepancy does not reflect the progress of current students, as the school has implemented effective strategies to support reading development across all year groups. Pupils who struggle with reading receive targeted support to help them catch up and access the full curriculum.
The school has established clear routines for behavior management, resulting in calm and orderly classrooms. Disruptive behavior is rare, and rules are applied consistently and fairly. Personal development is prioritized, with a strong focus on cultural and moral education. Pupils learn about various faiths and cultures, as well as important issues related to relationships and sex education. The school collaborates with community leaders and parents to prepare students for life in modern Britain.
Despite these strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some teachers do not effectively use assessment strategies to identify gaps in students' knowledge, which can lead to premature progression in lessons. Additionally, some pupils lack sufficient guidance regarding their future educational and career options, hindering their ability to make informed choices. The school is encouraged to enhance its careers advice and ensure that all students receive the necessary information to navigate their next steps successfully.
Overall, King’s Leadership Academy demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive environment for all students. The school’s leadership, curriculum, and focus on personal development contribute to its positive reputation within the community.
