Dorrington Academy, located in Birmingham, has received an outstanding rating in its recent inspection conducted from November 6 to 7, 2019. The school has shown remarkable improvement since its previous inspection in May 2018, where it was rated as good. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision have all been rated outstanding, reflecting the school's commitment to excellence.
Pupils at Dorrington Academy enjoy attending school and engage in daily reading, writing, and mathematics, achieving high standards in these subjects. The curriculum is well-structured, ensuring that pupils learn essential content in a logical sequence. Leaders maintain high expectations for pupil achievement and prepare them for life in modern Britain. The school offers practical activities that enhance learning across various subjects, including rock climbing, pizza making, and yoga, which contribute to a well-rounded education.
The staff at Dorrington Academy are dedicated and work diligently to provide exceptional teaching. They foster positive relationships with pupils, resulting in excellent behavior throughout the school. Bullying is infrequent, and when it does occur, staff are quick to address it. The school prioritizes the mental health and well-being of both staff and pupils, creating a calm and welcoming environment.
Leaders are committed to maintaining a high standard of education and demonstrate clear passion and drive. New staff receive adequate support, and their workloads are manageable. Teachers create engaging activities that build on pupils' prior knowledge, ensuring effective learning across all subjects. The early years provision is particularly strong, with a focus on developing speaking and listening skills, and children are eager to learn in both indoor and outdoor settings.
Reading instruction begins as soon as pupils join the school, with well-trained staff conducting daily phonics sessions in small groups. This approach has fostered a love of reading among pupils, who frequently discuss their favorite books and authors. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are fully included in all activities, and their needs are effectively met by the special educational needs coordinator. Disadvantaged pupils also receive the necessary support, often making better progress than their peers.
Pupils are encouraged to think critically and develop confidence in their abilities. Their work is neat, and they take pride in their accomplishments. Effective assessment practices help identify areas where pupils need additional support, ensuring that all pupils, regardless of background or ability, make excellent progress in their learning.
The school environment is attractive and well-organized, filled with resources that enhance the learning experience. Pupils are happy to share their work and articulate their learning experiences using a rich vocabulary. Interdisciplinary links between subjects further enrich the curriculum, with practical lessons reinforcing concepts learned in other areas.
Pupils exhibit exemplary behavior both in lessons and throughout the school. They are polite and well-mannered, supported by a rewards system that promotes kindness and respect. The school provides numerous opportunities for pupils to learn about diverse beliefs and cultures, engage in charity work, and participate in the local community. The inclusive community that leaders have created ensures that all pupils thrive and are well-prepared for their transition to secondary school.
The safeguarding arrangements at Dorrington Academy are effective, with all staff trained to prioritize pupil safety and well-being. Leaders ensure that staff are suitable for their roles and provide pupils with the knowledge to keep themselves safe in various situations, including online safety. Overall, Dorrington Academy stands out as a school where pupils flourish academically and personally, supported by a dedicated staff and a nurturing environment.