Hadrian Academy, located in Dunstable, Bedfordshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 20 and 21, 2023. The principal, Ross Griffin, leads the school, which is part of the Hadrian Academy Trust, overseen by a board of trustees chaired by Angela Leishman. The school fosters a positive learning environment where pupils thrive and enjoy their educational experience. Students demonstrate a strong sense of teamwork and collaboration in lessons, contributing to a supportive atmosphere both academically and socially. They engage in various leadership roles and show kindness on the playground, reflecting a culture of responsibility and care for one another.
Pupils at Hadrian Academy exhibit high aspirations for themselves and their peers. They articulate their learning goals and future ambitions with enthusiasm, working diligently to meet the expectations set by their leaders. The school emphasizes the importance of learning, making it enjoyable and accessible. The library is a popular space, often filled with students eager to explore new books, highlighting their love for reading.
The school effectively addresses the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), ensuring they receive appropriate support to access the curriculum alongside their peers. The identification of these needs is prompt and accurate, allowing staff to provide tailored assistance. The reading curriculum is particularly well-implemented, with staff delivering it with great attention to detail, ensuring that pupils develop fluency in reading. Support is readily available for those who struggle, including a catch-up program for those needing additional help.
While the school has made significant strides in its curriculum, there are areas for improvement. Some subjects lack clarity regarding the specific knowledge pupils should acquire by the end of primary school. This ambiguity can lead to gaps in learning, as teachers may not emphasize or assess the essential content effectively. In the early years, this lack of clarity can result in missed opportunities for linking activities to the curriculum.
Pupils generally focus well during lessons and adhere to the school's behavior expectations. On the rare occasions when behavior issues arise, staff follow established policies to ensure improvement. Support is provided for pupils who struggle with emotional regulation, helping them return to their learning quickly.
The school offers enriching opportunities for pupils to learn about diversity and the wider world. Pupils take pride in their involvement in the performing arts and contribute to the school community through various councils aimed at enhancing school life. Staff members express pride in their work at Hadrian Academy, with leaders actively supporting their well-being and managing workloads effectively.
The safeguarding arrangements at Hadrian Academy are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school is committed to continuous improvement, with a focus on refining its curriculum to ensure that all pupils acquire the necessary knowledge and skills. The inspection highlighted the need for clearer curriculum plans in certain subjects to prevent knowledge gaps and enhance the overall educational experience for students. Overall, Hadrian Academy continues to provide a supportive and engaging learning environment, fostering both academic and personal growth among its pupils.
