The New Forest Academy, located in Holbury, Southampton, has recently undergone an inspection on the 27th and 28th of September 2023, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The principal, Rob Forder, leads the school, which is part of the Academies Enterprise Trust. The trust is overseen by CEO Rebecca Boomer-Clark and a board of trustees chaired by David Hall. The school aims to provide a high-quality education for all pupils, fostering an inclusive and ambitious ethos.
The inspection highlighted the school's commitment to raising academic standards and refining its curriculum. Pupils are encouraged to take a broader range of subjects, and the quality of work produced is increasingly high, including for those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school tailors personalized curriculums for some students, ensuring that individual needs are met effectively. Staff maintain high expectations for pupil behavior, which is consistently excellent in lessons and during social times. The school promotes kindness as a core value, contributing to a safe and happy environment where pupils feel proud to attend.
Curriculum teams demonstrate strong subject knowledge, clearly outlining what pupils need to learn at each stage. Teachers present information logically and check for understanding before progressing. Activities are designed to allow pupils to apply their learning in various contexts, and feedback from teachers is constructive. Adjustments for pupils with special educational needs are based on detailed information, ensuring appropriate support. The school emphasizes developing resilience, encouraging pupils to seek answers independently before asking for help.
The reading strategy in place effectively supports pupils needing additional help. The school identifies gaps in reading knowledge and provides targeted support. The tutor reading program exposes all pupils to diverse texts, and approaches used in tutor periods are increasingly integrated into the wider curriculum. The pastoral system is robust, helping pupils thrive as individuals. Pupils appreciate the range of extracurricular activities and generally exhibit confidence and respect for diversity.
The school's careers program is well-structured, preparing pupils for future studies and the workforce. Links with local employers enhance this program, and the personal development curriculum addresses health, risky behaviors, and equality issues. However, the delivery of tutor sessions lacks consistency, affecting some pupils' depth of understanding.
The trust provides strong support, enabling the school to fulfill its mission of raising expectations. Established systems ensure effective support and challenge for leaders, and statutory duties, including safeguarding, are met effectively. Staff workload is considered, and measures have been taken to reduce unnecessary tasks, contributing to a positive working environment.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some aspects of the new curriculum are not fully embedded, which may hinder some pupils from achieving their potential. The school is encouraged to ensure consistent implementation of the curriculum across all areas. Additionally, the personal development program's delivery needs enhancement to ensure all pupils develop a comprehensive understanding of personal, social, health, and economic topics. Training for tutors is essential to equip them with the necessary knowledge to deliver this program effectively.
Overall, The New Forest Academy demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive environment for all pupils. The inspection findings reflect the school's dedication to continuous improvement and the well-being of its students.
