Upperwood Academy, located in Darfield, Barnsley, is recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 11-12, 2020. The headteacher, Alistair Budd, is deeply committed to the success and well-being of the students, fostering a strong connection with parents and the local community. Parents appreciate his involvement, noting that it creates a sense of belonging within the school. The school environment is characterized by high expectations for student behavior, and pupils report feeling safe and secure. Bullying is not perceived as a significant issue, and students demonstrate focus and enthusiasm during lessons, contributing to their overall academic success.
The curriculum has recently undergone a review, particularly in reading, science, and art, which has positively impacted students' learning and retention. However, some gaps in knowledge remain, especially among key stage two pupils in science and art. Reading is prioritized, with young children quickly developing their reading and writing skills. This emphasis has enhanced students' enjoyment of reading, although there is a need for better monitoring of the reading materials chosen by older pupils to ensure a diverse range of authors and genres.
The leadership team is proactive in seeking improvements and has established a collaborative atmosphere among staff to enhance the curriculum. New subject leaders are contributing positively to the school's development, and the support and training provided by senior leaders have been well-received by staff, balancing their professional development with workload considerations. The curriculum is thoughtfully designed, with knowledge organizers aiding students in understanding subject-specific terminology in areas like art and science. While many teachers deliver the curriculum effectively, some require additional training to confidently model the correct technical terms.
In art, students demonstrate a solid understanding of influential artists and their techniques, while in science, they engage in investigations to test their hypotheses. However, some students struggle with articulating their findings using appropriate scientific language. The school places a strong emphasis on reading, particularly for disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs. Parents express satisfaction with the support their children receive, ensuring they keep pace with their peers.
The teaching of phonics is effective, enabling young learners to acquire essential reading and writing skills. The school promotes a love of reading, with teachers selecting appropriate texts for younger students and encouraging older pupils to explore a variety of literature. Despite this, there is insufficient oversight of older students' reading choices, which can limit their exposure to different literary styles.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff trained to recognize and address potential risks. Collaboration with parents and external agencies enhances the protection of students. Pupils are aware of how to maintain their safety in various contexts and feel confident that their concerns will be addressed.
To further improve, the school must ensure that curriculum changes are fully implemented and that teachers effectively deliver the updated content. Additionally, there is a need for closer monitoring of older pupils' reading selections to broaden their literary experiences. Overall, Upperwood Academy continues to provide a supportive and effective educational environment, with a clear commitment to ongoing improvement and student success.
