Old Basford School, located in Nottinghamshire, has recently undergone its first inspection since becoming an academy. The inspection, conducted on December 6 and 7, 2023, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good across various categories, including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. The early years provision received an outstanding rating, highlighting the school's commitment to providing a strong foundation for its youngest learners.
The headteacher, Laura Duffin, leads the school, which is part of The Old Basford School Trust. The trust is overseen by a board of trustees, chaired by David Lawson. The school has not been previously inspected under the current framework, as it was exempt from routine inspections until November 2020. This inspection marks a significant milestone for the school, reflecting its progress and development since its establishment as an academy.
Parents and carers express positive sentiments about the school, with many describing it as a nurturing environment for their children. Pupils demonstrate kindness, inclusivity, and good behaviour, contributing to a positive school culture. The staff model the values of respect and kindness, fostering a safe and supportive atmosphere where pupils feel cared for and motivated to learn. The school emphasizes high expectations for all students, encouraging them to embrace opportunities for success through various programs and activities.
The early years provision is particularly noteworthy, as children thrive in a well-structured and engaging learning environment. The curriculum prioritizes reading, with younger pupils receiving daily phonics lessons from well-trained staff, enabling them to become confident readers. However, some older pupils still face challenges in reading, and the school provides timely support to help them improve.
While many subjects within the curriculum are ambitious and well-planned, there are areas where clarity regarding key knowledge could be enhanced. In some lessons, pupils may not always receive the necessary focus on essential knowledge, which can impact their retention and understanding. Teachers employ effective strategies to recap previous learning and assess pupil understanding, but there is room for improvement in ensuring that all lessons consistently emphasize key learning objectives.
The school is dedicated to supporting all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Staff are quick to identify pupils who may require additional assistance, and mental health support is available to help students build emotional resilience. However, there are instances where teachers may lack sufficient information to provide the most effective support for pupils with SEND, indicating a need for improved communication and training.
Overall, Old Basford School is well-led, with leaders actively working to enhance the quality of education. The school has made significant strides in improving pupil outcomes, and governors effectively fulfill their roles. Staff report feeling valued and supported, contributing to a positive working environment. The school fosters a strong sense of community, encouraging pupils to engage in charitable activities and take on responsibilities that promote character development.
In summary, Old Basford School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education in a supportive and inclusive environment. While there are areas for growth, particularly in ensuring consistent emphasis on key knowledge and improving support for pupils with SEND, the school is on a positive trajectory, with strong leadership and a dedicated staff working towards the success of all its pupils.
