Yarborough Academy, located in Grimsby, Lincolnshire, has recently undergone an inspection on the 31st of October and 1st of November 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school has been rated as good, reflecting a positive environment for learning and development. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, as well as early years provision have all been assessed as good, indicating a consistent standard across various aspects of the school.
Pupils at Yarborough Academy demonstrate pride in their learning and exhibit a strong sense of well-being, which is central to the school's ethos. The adults in the school community maintain high expectations for student achievement, fostering an atmosphere where pupils are engaged and attentive during lessons. The school promotes a safe and supportive environment, where pupils feel happy and secure. Positive behavior is evident, with older students actively supporting younger peers during playtimes, and initiatives like the friendship bench encourage inclusivity and social interaction.
The school emphasizes its core values of growth, love, and striving for excellence, which pupils aspire to embody. Recognition through GLO cards and stickers motivates students to meet these values. Pupils are well-informed about bullying and feel confident that any incidents will be addressed promptly by staff.
Yarborough Academy offers a range of extracurricular activities, allowing pupils to explore their interests and talents. Clubs such as football and art are popular, and unique experiences like learning to play African drums have been well-received. Educational trips are thoughtfully integrated into the curriculum, enhancing the learning experience and helping pupils retain knowledge from their studies.
The school community is committed to equality of opportunity, ensuring that all pupils thrive together in a culture of mutual respect. The curriculum is ambitious and begins in the early years, with clear expectations for what pupils should remember across subjects. While some published outcomes are still below national averages, school leaders are actively working to improve these results. The curriculum is generally well-suited to most pupils with special educational needs, although some adjustments are needed for a small number of pupils with more complex needs to ensure they can fully engage with their learning.
Teachers effectively connect prior knowledge to new concepts, and while they are confident in their teaching methods, there is a noted need for improvement in creative writing instruction within English classes. The phonics program has seen recent enhancements, leading to consistent and effective early reading instruction.
In the early years, the curriculum is well-structured and aligns with key stage one, focusing on reading and vocabulary development. Children are encouraged to express themselves and engage in physical activities, fostering their confidence and social skills.
Pupils benefit from a personal development program that emphasizes the importance of physical health and mental well-being. They are equipped with techniques to prepare for learning and understand the significance of healthy lifestyles. The school has made strides in promoting good attendance, with effective communication to parents about its importance.
The governing body has experienced changes, with new members appointed to enhance its effectiveness. However, there is a need for a clearer strategic vision to improve governance and accountability. Training is underway to ensure governors understand their roles and responsibilities fully.
Overall, while Yarborough Academy demonstrates many strengths, there are areas for improvement, particularly in creative writing instruction and support for pupils with complex needs. The commitment to fostering a positive learning environment and ensuring the well-being of all pupils remains a priority for the school.
