Ardley Hill Academy, located in Dunstable, Bedfordshire, has undergone a recent inspection that has resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection took place on July 16 and 17, 2024, and marked a significant improvement from the previous inspection, which rated the school as requiring improvement. The headteacher, Stephen Fox, leads the school, which is part of the Chiltern Learning Trust, a multi-academy trust overseen by CEO Adrian Rogers and a board of trustees chaired by Graham Pryor.
The school promotes its core values encapsulated in the acronym REACH, which stands for resilience, engagement, aspiration, communication, and health. Pupils actively participate in a five-step reward program that enhances their sense of belonging and happiness within the school community. This initiative has been well received by both students and their families, fostering a positive school environment.
Ardley Hill Academy has made strides in encouraging community involvement among its pupils. The safeguarding squad, composed of students, plays a vital role in looking out for their peers, reporting any concerns to trusted adults. The school also provides robust pastoral support, ensuring that vulnerable pupils can express their feelings and needs, contributing to a safe and supportive atmosphere.
The curriculum at Ardley Hill Academy is continuously evolving to provide a comprehensive educational experience. The teaching methods employed help pupils develop a broad understanding across various subjects. For example, by Year 1, students learn basic computing skills, while by Year 4, they engage with historical concepts such as civilization and invasion. This curriculum design aims to enhance pupils' vocabulary and comprehension of key ideas, preparing them effectively for future academic challenges.
The school has made significant efforts to rebuild relationships with parents and the local community, which has been positively received. High attendance at community events, such as the bonfire night, reflects the growing support for the school and its initiatives. The school is currently refining its curriculum with assistance from subject experts within the trust, ensuring that teaching methods and assessment strategies are effective and aligned with best practices.
Reading proficiency is a notable strength at Ardley Hill Academy, attributed to the diligent implementation of phonics and reading programs. Staff training is prioritized to ensure that educators are equipped to support students effectively. Many children in the Nursery Year can identify letter sounds, laying a strong foundation for reading and spelling as they progress through key stage 1. However, some pupils still face challenges with fluent and expressive reading, indicating a need for further staff training to enhance support for these students.
The school has seen an increase in the number of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), and it is managing this effectively through early identification and regular review of support plans. Most parents appreciate the comprehensive training provided to staff, which includes strategies for supporting pupils with complex needs. However, inconsistencies in the application of support can hinder progress for some students with SEND, highlighting an area for improvement.
Pupils generally exhibit calm and focused behavior, reflecting the positive reinforcement strategies employed by staff. While minor behavioral issues occasionally arise, the school has equipped staff with effective strategies to manage these situations. Attendance is actively promoted, with initiatives such as using a minibus for transportation and interactions with a therapy dog contributing to a positive school experience.
The personal development program at Ardley Hill Academy has expanded since the last inspection, offering various opportunities for pupils to engage in sports and educational trips. The presence of an on-site swimming pool enhances physical education, while regular performances in local venues help build pupils' confidence and public speaking skills.
Governance at both the local and trust levels has a positive impact on the school, with rigorous safeguarding audits ensuring the well-being of vulnerable pupils. Networking opportunities provided by the trust have led to improvements in curriculum and teaching quality, fostering a supportive working environment for staff.
The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. However, there are areas identified for improvement, particularly in enhancing reading fluency and expression for weaker readers and ensuring consistent support for pupils with SEND. Addressing these issues will be crucial for the continued success and development of Ardley Hill Academy.
