Oakwood Academy has been recognized as an outstanding school, continuing to provide exceptional education and support for its students. The headteacher, Lisa Southwood, leads the school, which is part of the Kings Academy Trust. The trust is overseen by CEO Amanda Nicholson and a board of trustees chaired by Laurence Cooper. The school serves a unique community of pupils, all of whom have special educational needs and/or disabilities. The nurturing environment at Oakwood Academy allows students to thrive academically, personally, and socially, with a strong emphasis on overcoming barriers to learning.
The curriculum at Oakwood Academy is ambitious and broad, designed to inspire students to explore their individual talents and interests. High expectations are set for all pupils, including those in the specially resourced provision for students with SEND. The school ensures that pupils receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for their future, with practical experiences such as running a community shop to develop communication and social skills.
Positive relationships between staff and pupils are a hallmark of the school. Staff demonstrate deep care for their students, fostering kindness and commendable behavior among peers. The school promotes a vibrant life through various clubs and activities, including sports, crafts, music, and computing. Educational trips and competitions further enrich the curriculum, helping students build confidence and resilience.
Oakwood Academy excels in tailoring its curriculum to meet the individual needs of its pupils, incorporating insights from their education, health, and care plans. The school offers bespoke pathways that enhance speech, language, and communication skills. Pupils engage in a wide range of academic and vocational qualifications, achieving high standards. Subject curriculums are carefully structured, ensuring logical progression and effective assessment strategies to monitor understanding and address misconceptions.
Reading is a priority at Oakwood Academy, with targeted support for pupils in the early stages of literacy. This support is sustained until students achieve fluency and confidence in their reading abilities, exposing them to a diverse range of literature. The school creates a positive learning environment where pupils feel a sense of belonging and stability, thanks to the dedicated education and therapy staff.
The atmosphere at Oakwood Academy is harmonious, with pupils showing respect and care for one another. They transition calmly between lessons and settle quickly into their studies. The school employs effective strategies to encourage regular attendance. Personal development is prioritized, with pupils actively participating in the school council and learning about democracy, finance, and health education. The proactive approach to mental health includes mindfulness and yoga sessions for sixth-form students, promoting well-being.
High-quality careers guidance is provided, enabling pupils to engage in work-related learning experiences. The majority successfully transition to further education, employment, or training. Staff morale is high, with educators expressing pride in their work and appreciation for the support they receive in managing workloads. The local governing body and trust demonstrate unwavering commitment to the school's success, utilizing their diverse skills to provide exceptional support.
Safeguarding arrangements at Oakwood Academy are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. This ungraded inspection confirms the school's outstanding status, reflecting its dedication to excellence in education and care for its students. The school continues to thrive under the leadership of its committed staff and supportive governance, making a significant impact on the lives of its pupils.
