Eastfield Academy, located in Northamptonshire, is recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on July 17 and 18, 2024. The headteacher, Peter Fairbrother, leads the school, which is part of the David Ross Education Trust. The trust is overseen by CEO Stuart Burns and a board of trustees chaired by David Ross. The school fosters a caring environment that promotes a strong sense of belonging among its pupils. Students express happiness and safety within the school community, which is characterized by warm and nurturing relationships between staff and pupils. Respect and courtesy are consistently demonstrated among students and staff alike.
Pupils take pride in their diverse community, celebrating differences and sharing aspects of their own cultures and religions. They actively participate in planning school events, such as the summer carnival, and enjoy experiencing various cultural foods. Leadership skills are developed through meaningful community involvement, including participation in local initiatives and competitions. The school’s ambitious curriculum is well-received, with pupils displaying positive attitudes towards their learning and a desire to excel.
In the early years, children are encouraged to explore their interests and develop independence through play-based learning. They interact cooperatively, demonstrating an understanding of taking turns. The curriculum provides a clear progression from Nursery to Reception, with a focus on celebrating children’s writing and phonics knowledge. Reading is prioritized, with a well-implemented phonics program and carefully matched reading materials that enhance fluency. Daily reading sessions with staff and the use of high-quality texts across subjects enrich the reading experience.
Mathematics instruction is comprehensive, ensuring pupils develop fluency, problem-solving, and reasoning skills. Lessons are structured to include clear instructions and consistent models, emphasizing mathematical vocabulary and encouraging pupils to articulate their thinking. The wider curriculum is ambitious and well-sequenced, focusing on vocabulary development and essential knowledge across subjects. Pupils feel confident discussing their learning, although there are occasional inconsistencies in how tasks are adapted to meet individual needs, which can affect learning outcomes.
Engagement levels in lessons are high, supported by effective pastoral care that helps pupils manage their behavior and emotions. The school identifies pupils with special educational needs and disabilities promptly, collaborating with external agencies to provide appropriate support. A small number of pupils benefit from the newly established Willow Room, designed to cater to individual learning needs. The school actively networks with specialist settings to enhance its provision.
Pupils demonstrate a mature understanding of British values and can relate them to their personal experiences. They confidently discuss various world faiths and engage in community support initiatives. The school offers a wide range of clubs and trips that enhance learning experiences. Staff report feeling well-supported in their roles, with access to high-quality training and networking opportunities. Governance is effective, with leaders aware of the school’s strengths and areas for improvement.
The safeguarding arrangements at Eastfield Academy are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. However, the school recognizes the need to improve the consistency of lesson adaptations to better meet individual pupil needs, thereby maximizing learning opportunities for all students. This inspection marks the first ungraded assessment since the school was last judged to be good in January 2020, and it highlights the ongoing commitment to maintaining high educational standards.
