Braunton Academy, located in Braunton, Devon, is a secondary comprehensive school that has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 28-29, 2020. The school operates under the motto Aspire and Achieve, which is reflected in the positive engagement of both pupils and staff in the school community. Pupils actively participate in school life, encouraged by teachers to explore and inquire, fostering a supportive learning environment. The school prioritizes pupil safety, with rare instances of bullying reported, and promotes respectful behavior among students. There are designated safe spaces for pupils seeking a quieter environment during breaks.
The school offers a diverse range of clubs and extracurricular activities, including various language programs and opportunities for international travel. Pupils engage in fundraising for trips abroad, such as to Martinique, and participate in biannual visits to Uganda, enhancing their global perspective. As students progress through their education, they develop resilience and take increasing responsibility for their learning.
Braunton Academy's curriculum is broad and ambitious, particularly at key stage three, where pupils enjoy a variety of subjects. The planning of the curriculum is well-structured, allowing pupils to revisit key themes, which deepens their understanding over time. Teachers utilize their subject knowledge to create appropriate learning activities, although some subject plans lack clarity regarding essential knowledge, leading to gaps in learning for some pupils.
Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is a strong point for the school, with effective strategies in place to ensure these pupils learn alongside their peers. The mathematics curriculum has seen improvements, with teachers using assessment data to inform their planning and ensuring pupils have ample practice to build their skills. In English, the curriculum supports the development of reading, writing, and speaking skills, preparing pupils well for their GCSE examinations.
However, there are areas for improvement. The English curriculum at key stage three is criticized for focusing too heavily on examination techniques, which detracts from the broader development of pupils' writing and reading capabilities. Additionally, inconsistencies in teachers' expectations regarding written work can hinder pupils' progress in spelling and subject-specific vocabulary.
The school actively promotes understanding of different cultures and religions, inviting guest speakers to share diverse perspectives. Pupils are encouraged to take on leadership roles and participate in various artistic and sporting activities, contributing to a well-rounded educational experience. The governance of the school is strong, with trust leaders and governors effectively supporting the principal in raising pupil aspirations and holding the leadership accountable for educational quality.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff trained to recognize signs of abuse and potential risks. The school has established effective communication channels for reporting concerns, ensuring timely support for pupils and families.
To enhance its educational offerings, Braunton Academy needs to clarify the specific knowledge that should be taught within its curriculum plans. This will help secure pupils' understanding and retention of essential information. Additionally, the school should adjust its approach to English assessment in key stage three to prioritize broader literacy development over exam preparation. By addressing these areas, Braunton Academy can continue to provide a high-quality education that meets the needs of all its pupils.
