The Vale Academy, located in Dunstable, Bedfordshire, underwent an inspection on May 17 and 18, 2023, and received an overall effectiveness rating of Requires Improvement. The quality of education was also rated as Requires Improvement, while behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management were rated as Good. The early years provision was similarly rated as Requires Improvement. This inspection marked a significant change from the previous inspection in October 2017, where the school was rated as Good.
Pupils at The Vale Academy express enjoyment in attending the school, appreciating the supportive environment created by their teachers. They are motivated to learn and earn points for their efforts, indicating a desire to succeed. However, there is a noted need for additional support to help pupils, particularly those in early years, reach their full potential. The school fosters a positive social environment where pupils get along well, uphold the school's values, and feel safe due to the presence of trusted adults and anti-bullying ambassadors.
The school has made strides in providing pupils with opportunities for personal development, including leadership roles and participation in various extracurricular activities. However, the curriculum has recently been updated, and while it aims to build knowledge logically over time, there are gaps in the foundational knowledge of pupils transitioning from early years to Year 1. Leaders are working on refining the curriculum to ensure that children acquire the necessary skills before moving on.
Training has been provided to staff on the revised curriculum, and in subjects like mathematics, where the curriculum is closely followed, pupils achieve well. However, in some foundation subjects, the implementation is still in its early stages, leading to inconsistencies in the depth of knowledge pupils gain. The introduction of a new phonics programme aims to enhance reading skills among younger pupils, but some struggling readers do not receive the necessary support to improve, resulting in slower progress.
The school has made efforts to adapt activities for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), but there are instances where the work provided does not adequately meet their needs, hindering their potential achievements. The early years curriculum is still under development, and leaders are working to ensure that it effectively prepares children for Year 1.
Behaviour in the school is generally good, with pupils understanding the importance of listening and respecting one another. The school promotes attendance and has systems in place to support pupils who may need additional help. Pupils are educated about democracy, respect for others, and healthy relationships, contributing to their preparation for life in modern Britain.
Staff at The Vale Academy report a manageable workload and feel supported by leadership. Trustees are actively involved in overseeing the school's operations and ensuring that leaders are held accountable for their performance. Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to concerns, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
To improve, the school needs to address the gaps in phonics knowledge among some pupils and ensure that effective support is consistently provided for weaker readers. The implementation of the revised curriculum must be strengthened across all subjects to ensure that pupils gain the intended knowledge. Additionally, the early years curriculum requires further development to better prepare children for their transition to Year 1. Regular checks on the provision for pupils with SEND are necessary to ensure that their needs are met effectively.
