Bridgwater College Academy, located in Somerset, underwent an inspection on May 10 and 11, 2023, and received an overall effectiveness rating of Requires Improvement. The quality of education was also rated as Requires Improvement, while behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management were rated as Good. The early years provision was similarly rated as Good. The school previously received a Good rating in its last inspection in February 2020.
The inspection highlighted that the school fosters strong relationships with children, families, and the community, beginning in the Nursery. The all-through campus allows for smooth transitions between different educational stages, and older pupils are encouraged to model positive behaviours for younger students. Pupils feel safe and confident that any incidents of unkindness or bullying are addressed effectively by the leadership team. However, a small number of pupils struggle to meet the high expectations set by the leaders, particularly in terms of attendance and punctuality.
In the early years, children enjoy a variety of activities that promote purposeful play and exploration. Older pupils appreciate leadership roles, such as those on the school council. The school has developed a broad and ambitious curriculum, with some subjects, like physical education, showing coherent progression from Reception to key stage four. However, in certain areas, teachers lack clarity regarding the detailed content of the curriculum, which can hinder pupils' learning. This inconsistency leads to some pupils making incorrect assumptions or waiting for answers rather than engaging with the material.
Teachers in Reception focus on high-quality interactions to enhance children's language development, preparing them for formal learning. In classes for older pupils, most students engage well, but teachers sometimes fail to recognize when pupils lack the foundational knowledge necessary for success. This oversight can lead to disengagement, particularly among older students.
Reading is prioritized within the curriculum, with a well-structured phonics program in place for early readers. Staff are trained to deliver effective reading instruction, and additional support is provided as needed. The school is committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, ensuring that teachers have the necessary information to assist these students effectively. However, there are instances where the support provided does not fully meet the needs of all pupils, particularly older students.
The personal, social, and health education curriculum is well-sequenced in the primary phase, but some content for older pupils has been deemed too simplistic. Leaders are working to refine this curriculum to ensure it is age-appropriate. The school offers various enrichment opportunities, although younger pupils tend to engage more fully than older ones. A well-planned careers program is in place, providing pupils with guidance for their future educational paths.
Teachers report feeling well-supported by leaders, who are mindful of their workload. Collaboration among staff across phases is encouraged, and training is provided to develop leadership skills at all levels. The governing body is knowledgeable about the school's priorities and offers appropriate support and challenge.
The safeguarding arrangements at Bridgwater College Academy are effective. Leaders understand the community's needs and ensure that staff receive up-to-date training to identify and report concerns. The safeguarding team is visible and accessible to pupils, who feel confident in seeking help when needed. Overall, while the school has strengths in various areas, it must address the inconsistencies in curriculum implementation and ensure that all pupils receive the support they need to succeed.
