Mulberry Academy Shoreditch, located in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets, has been evaluated as a good school with outstanding features in several areas. The recent inspection, conducted on 14 and 15 September 2022, highlighted the school's commitment to providing a high-quality education and a supportive environment for its pupils. The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including skiing trips, overseas visits, and various after-school clubs, which enrich the learning experience and help students develop a well-rounded understanding of the world. The leadership team, under the guidance of the executive headteacher, has successfully navigated challenges to foster a community where both pupils and staff feel valued and supported.
The school has a strong focus on personal development, with programs that promote understanding of British values and respect for diverse backgrounds. Pupils demonstrate excellent behavior and a clear understanding of the importance of safety and well-being. The curriculum is generally well-structured, allowing most pupils to achieve ambitious goals. However, there are some subjects where the curriculum lacks clarity in terms of what is to be learned, which can hinder progression. Leaders are aware of these areas and are actively working to implement improvements.
The school excels in its approach to safeguarding, ensuring that the safety and well-being of pupils are prioritized. Staff are well-trained to recognize signs of distress and are equipped to provide timely support. The procedures for checking the suitability of staff are robust, and the school maintains strong links with external agencies to facilitate additional support when needed.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Leaders need to ensure that the curriculum is consistently ambitious across all subjects and that the implementation of a phonics program for weaker readers is fully embedded. This will help to ensure that all pupils can access the curriculum confidently and make the most of their educational opportunities.
The school has a positive ethos, with a strong emphasis on care and support for both pupils and staff. The house system and the work of heads of years contribute to a sense of community and belonging. Staff report high levels of satisfaction with the support they receive from leaders, who prioritize their well-being and workload.
Overall, Mulberry Academy Shoreditch is a school that provides a good quality of education, with outstanding features in behavior, personal development, and leadership. The commitment to continuous improvement is evident, and the school is well-positioned to address the areas identified for development. The focus on academic rigor, combined with a strong support system for pupils, ensures that students are well-prepared for their future endeavors, whether that be further education or entering the workforce. The school’s dedication to fostering a safe and nurturing environment is commendable, making it a valuable institution within the community.
