St Augustine’s Academy, located in Dunstable, Bedfordshire, is recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 5 and 6, 2024. The headteacher, Amanda Howes, leads the school, which operates as a single-academy trust overseen by a board of trustees chaired by Carole Hegley. The school community is characterized by a strong sense of belonging, with pupils expressing that it is a place where they can shine. They adhere to three golden rules: to be kind, respectful, and to do their best. New pupils are welcomed warmly, quickly integrating into the school family. The teaching staff is dedicated to making learning enjoyable, which contributes to the overall happiness of the students and their good progress.
Pupils demonstrate safe conduct and consideration for others, particularly during break times. Older pupils are trained to assist those who may feel lonely or anxious, fostering a supportive environment. The school emphasizes safety, with pupils knowledgeable about safe practices, including internet use and road safety. A variety of extracurricular activities are available, and pupils are encouraged to take on leadership roles, such as participating in the eco council and engaging in character-building activities with special guests. Opportunities for competition, such as running events, are also plentiful.
The curriculum at St Augustine’s Academy is rich and ambitious, designed with a clear understanding of pupils’ needs. It includes supplementary experiences that connect various subjects, enhancing pupils’ aspirations. The school has established clear knowledge and vocabulary goals, allowing most pupils to build their understanding effectively. However, in some subjects, the curriculum may be overly ambitious, leading to challenges in covering all material thoroughly within the available time. This can result in some pupils struggling to retain key knowledge.
Despite national assessment results not being particularly strong, the school effectively supports pupils in learning the curriculum. Many students join mid-year, often facing educational disruptions. Teachers assess new pupils accurately and provide tailored support, enabling them to make significant progress. The longer pupils remain at the school, the better their academic outcomes tend to be, including those who initially have limited English proficiency. Pupils who start in Reception generally achieve well by Year 6.
Reading is prioritized, with early-stage readers following a structured program to develop fluency. The school provides additional support for those who fall behind, ensuring they catch up quickly. Pupils engage with a diverse range of books and enjoy listening to their teachers read.
Teachers are effective in their instruction, introducing concepts gradually and checking for understanding through regular questioning. They offer ample opportunities for practice, ensuring that pupils can apply new knowledge confidently. The early years provision is particularly strong, with children making rapid progress through engaging interactions and well-planned activities.
The school serves a higher-than-average proportion of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, ensuring they have access to the full curriculum. Individual plans help teachers adapt learning tasks, enabling these pupils to progress well from their starting points. Overall, pupils exhibit respectful behavior and focus in class, with effective support available for those needing assistance with behavior choices. However, attendance remains a concern, with too many pupils frequently absent, which limits their access to the curriculum. The school is actively working to improve attendance rates.
St Augustine’s Academy offers a well-rounded program of activities that supports pupils’ broader development, including outdoor education. Staff demonstrate a strong commitment to the school, appreciating the support they receive regarding training and workload. Safeguarding measures are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school is encouraged to refine its curriculum to enhance knowledge retention and to continue improving attendance for better academic outcomes.
