Bluecoat Aspley Academy, located in Nottingham, continues to be recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on June 11 and 12, 2024. Under the leadership of Principal Catherine Rowell, the school is part of the Archway Learning Trust, which provides additional governance and support. The trust is overseen by CEO Sian Hampton and a board of trustees chaired by Malcolm Trobe.
The school prides itself on being a caring and inclusive environment, welcoming pupils from diverse backgrounds. It fosters a sense of belonging through initiatives such as an annual culture day, where students and staff celebrate their varied heritages. High expectations are set for student achievement, and most pupils meet these standards. The majority exhibit positive behavior and a strong attitude towards learning, although some report occasional disruptions in lessons due to off-task behavior. Pupils generally feel safe and believe that bullying is addressed effectively, though there are concerns about respect among peers that need further attention.
Bluecoat Aspley Academy offers a broad curriculum, including the full range of English Baccalaureate subjects at key stage four, and has seen an increase in pupils opting to study modern foreign languages. The curriculum is well-structured, allowing students to build on prior knowledge effectively. Teachers demonstrate good subject knowledge and utilize assessments to identify and address learning gaps. However, consistency in teaching practices varies, with some teachers not always delivering the curriculum as effectively as others, which can impact student learning.
Reading is a priority at the school, with key stage three pupils participating in regular library lessons to cultivate a love for reading. Support is provided for those needing extra help, contributing to improvements in their reading skills. The school also ensures that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support, adapting teaching methods and resources to facilitate their learning.
In the sixth form, students have access to a variety of academic and vocational courses, benefiting from strong subject knowledge among teachers and a wealth of extracurricular opportunities. They receive effective careers guidance, preparing them well for future endeavors.
The school maintains high expectations for pupil behavior, supported by a clear behavior system. While most staff implement this effectively, a minority of pupils occasionally fail to meet these expectations, leading to instances of unkind behavior. The school has introduced a behavior curriculum aimed at promoting kindness and responsibility, but further efforts are needed to ensure all pupils understand and adhere to these standards.
Attendance is prioritized, with the school providing support to those needing assistance in improving their attendance rates. As a result, overall attendance is commendable. The school also emphasizes the importance of fundamental British values and online safety, equipping pupils for life in modern society.
Staff express pride in their work at the school and feel well-supported through professional development opportunities. The trust demonstrates a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement, providing effective support for ongoing development.
The safeguarding arrangements at Bluecoat Aspley Academy are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. The school is committed to continuous improvement, with a focus on enhancing teaching consistency and fostering a respectful school culture. Overall, Bluecoat Aspley Academy remains a good school, dedicated to the academic and personal growth of its pupils.
