Hall Road Academy, located in Hull, has recently undergone an inspection on the 5th and 6th of March 2024, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school, led by Principal Luke Pinder and part of the Academies Enterprise Trust, demonstrates a strong commitment to providing quality education and support for its pupils. The inspection highlighted the school's inclusive and welcoming environment, emphasizing the importance of community in decision-making processes. Pupils and their families receive necessary support, and the pastoral team is highly valued, with students referring to them as superheroes.
The school promotes positive behavior through the implementation of the three Bs: be ready, be respectful, and be safe. Pupils appreciate the recognition they receive for good behavior, which encourages them to maintain high standards. The school has established strong relationships between staff and students, fostering a safe atmosphere where pupils feel comfortable seeking help. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they occur, staff are quick to address the issues.
Hall Road Academy has recently revamped its curriculum to enhance its ambition and effectiveness. This new curriculum is designed to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is structured to facilitate learning from Year 1 to Year 6, with staff breaking down information into manageable steps to aid retention. This approach has proven successful, as pupils are now able to recall and apply important information in various subjects.
Reading is prioritized at Hall Road Academy, with a strong phonics program in place. Children begin learning phonics as soon as they start school, and those requiring additional support receive targeted assistance. The school encourages daily reading, and pupils are rewarded for their efforts with opportunities to select free books from a vending machine after reaching reading milestones. This initiative fosters a love for reading and contributes to pupils' overall academic success.
The curriculum for personal, social, health, and economic education is a notable strength, equipping pupils with essential life skills and knowledge about safety and community engagement. However, the school recognizes the need to further develop its foundation subjects and enhance local community links to enrich the curriculum. There is a focus on improving oracy skills and vocabulary across the school, with staff modeling language effectively. While progress has been made in the early years curriculum, there is still work to be done in ensuring that key vocabulary is consistently taught and reinforced.
Attendance has improved over the past year, with a reduction in persistent absenteeism. Leaders actively track attendance and provide support to pupils, including assigning staff buddies to encourage regular school attendance. Pupils demonstrate a strong understanding of diversity and equality, learning about different cultures and faiths through the curriculum.
The trust overseeing the school has been instrumental in supporting improvements and providing effective governance. Staff appreciate the ongoing training and coaching, which helps manage their workload. The safeguarding arrangements at Hall Road Academy are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
In summary, Hall Road Academy is a good school that prioritizes the well-being and education of its pupils. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in embedding the new curriculum and enhancing community links, the school is committed to fostering a positive learning environment and supporting the diverse needs of its students.
