Brockington College, located in Enderby, Leicester, was inspected on April 23 and 24, 2024. The overall effectiveness of the school is rated as requiring improvement, with the quality of education also falling into the same category. However, the school demonstrates good standards in behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. The principal, Sadie Batstone, leads the school, which is part of the Embrace Multi Academy Trust, overseen by CEO Sharon Mullins and chaired by Russell Andrews.
Pupils at Brockington College are noted for their politeness and respectfulness, contributing to a calm and orderly environment. The school promotes a Christian ethos and values that support personal development, fostering a culture of mutual respect and tolerance. Students learn about various faiths and cultures, enhancing their understanding and respect for diversity. The curriculum is broad and ambitious, yet inconsistencies in its delivery hinder some pupils from achieving their full potential. Expectations for pupil performance are sometimes too low, which is reflected in recent examination outcomes. Additionally, pupils with special educational needs and disabilities do not always receive the necessary support to access lessons effectively.
Beyond academics, the school offers an enriching program that includes memorable experiences and trips, such as visits to Iceland, Germany, and New York, as well as local excursions to places like Tate Modern and Warner Bros Studios. Pupils actively engage in leadership roles, promoting diversity and mental health awareness within the school community.
In terms of curriculum delivery, while the school has a well-planned curriculum that meets national standards, the implementation is inconsistent. Some staff do not adequately check pupils' understanding of prior knowledge, leading to gaps that hinder the connection of new concepts. This inconsistency results in pupils struggling to retain what they have learned, and the quality of their work varies. The school has systems in place to identify the needs of pupils with SEND, but the strategies to support them are not always effectively executed, impacting their engagement and achievement.
The school promotes reading through various initiatives, including library lessons and shared reading sessions. Most pupils attend regularly and exhibit good behavior in lessons and throughout the school. The school effectively supports those who struggle with attendance or behavior, with strong pastoral support available for mental health needs.
The personal, social, health, and careers education curriculum is well-structured and delivered by specialists, equipping pupils with knowledge about safety and health. The careers program includes opportunities for pupils to interact with employers and education providers, ensuring personalized career advice is available.
Brockington College has made strides in fostering a positive culture and improving communication with parents and carers. Leaders from the multi-academy trust are familiar with the school and share the ambition for ongoing improvement. Staff express satisfaction with their work environment and the support they receive.
To improve, the school must raise expectations for pupil achievement and ensure that all staff challenge pupils to think critically. Consistent routines for checking understanding need to be established, and lessons should be adapted to meet the diverse needs of all pupils, particularly those with SEND. By addressing these areas, Brockington College can enhance its educational provision and support all pupils in achieving their best.
