All Faiths Children’s Academy, located in Strood, Rochester, Kent, underwent an inspection on January 28 and 29, 2020. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, reflecting significant improvements since the previous inspection, which had rated it as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good, while personal development received an outstanding rating.
The school offers a rich and diverse curriculum that is highly inclusive, allowing all pupils to thrive. Students are encouraged to meet high expectations and embrace challenges in their learning. The atmosphere within the school is described as happy and safe, with pupils exhibiting calm and orderly behavior. They are polite, thoughtful, and considerate towards one another, fostering a respectful environment where bullying is rare. The school promotes an interest in various faiths and cultures, encouraging pupils to appreciate differences among people.
Pupils take pride in their inclusive mindset, which is evident in their approach to learning and daily interactions. A notable aspect of the school is its commitment to teaching British Sign Language to all pupils, which enhances communication among students, including those who are hearing-impaired or deaf. The school’s award-winning signing choir provides opportunities for both hearing and hearing-impaired pupils to perform together, further promoting inclusivity.
Leadership at the school is characterized by high expectations and a commitment to transforming life chances for all pupils. The headteacher has successfully built a dedicated team of staff who share these high standards. Together, they have developed a well-planned and ambitious curriculum that encourages pupils to engage in deep thinking about the knowledge they acquire. Reading is prioritized, with teachers skilled in introducing phonics and supporting pupils in applying their reading and writing skills. However, there are instances where home reading books do not align perfectly with pupils' abilities, leading to occasional struggles in practice.
Efforts to enhance pupils' vocabulary are evident, with regular encouragement for students to explore and understand new words. This focus on vocabulary development contributes to pupils in key stage two achieving secure reading skills and developing a genuine love for reading. The school’s leadership has provided appropriate training and support for teachers, ensuring strong subject knowledge and effective curriculum delivery. While most lessons are well-planned and engaging, there are times when teachers do not adequately consider prior learning, which can hinder pupils' ability to explain their understanding and retain knowledge.
The early years curriculum is thoughtfully planned, creating an environment where children can explore confidently. Adults provide nurturing support and clear routines, enabling children to thrive during their early years. The school’s provision for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is particularly strong, with staff trained to provide effective support, ensuring full inclusion in all aspects of school life.
Pupils benefit from a rich and diverse array of opportunities for personal development. They engage in discussions about global issues and learn to respect different faiths and cultures. The school encourages pupils to strive for their best and to be actively involved in decision-making processes, fostering responsible citizenship.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with leaders prioritizing pupils' safety and well-being. Staff receive comprehensive training to understand their responsibilities in keeping pupils safe. Pupils are educated on safety, including internet safety, and they feel secure knowing there are trusted adults available to address any concerns.
To further improve, the school should ensure that the well-planned curriculum is consistently delivered effectively. Additionally, home reading books should be organized more effectively to better support pupils in practicing their phonics knowledge. Overall, All Faiths Children’s Academy demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering an inclusive environment for all its pupils.
