Fishponds Church of England Academy, located in Bristol, has undergone a recent inspection that highlighted significant improvements in various aspects of the school. The inspection took place on March 9 and 10, 2022, and the overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, a notable advancement from the previous inspection grade of requires improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good.
Pupils at Fishponds Academy express enjoyment in their school experience, demonstrating confidence and success in their learning. They take pride in embodying the school’s Christian values, which are integrated into their understanding of various world religions and cultures. The school offers a diverse range of after-school activities that foster skills in sports, music, and cookery, contributing to a well-rounded educational experience.
The behavior of pupils is commendable, as they are polite, collaborative, and respectful of one another's opinions. Staff maintain high expectations for pupil behavior and actively support them in managing their emotions and resolving conflicts. The school environment is safe, with staff being attentive to the emotional needs of the pupils. When issues arise, such as bullying, staff are skilled in helping pupils restore relationships.
Pupils are encouraged to take on responsibilities, such as serving as school councillors and digital leaders, and they engage in charitable activities, demonstrating a sense of community and social responsibility. For instance, Year 2 pupils raised funds to support children in the Dominican Republic through their harvest celebration.
The leadership team is committed to ensuring the success of every child, having implemented numerous improvements in the curriculum and in addressing pupils' emotional and social needs. The curriculum is well-structured, with clear sequences of learning that build on prior knowledge, allowing pupils to excel across a wide range of subjects. Reading is particularly emphasized, with initiatives to promote a love of reading and a structured phonics program that begins in the Reception class.
While the school excels in reading and mathematics, there are areas for improvement in other subjects where assessment practices are not as effective. This inconsistency can hinder the ability to build on pupils' prior knowledge, potentially leading to gaps in learning. Leaders are encouraged to enhance assessment practices to ensure that all subjects benefit from a consistent approach.
The school demonstrates a strong commitment to safeguarding, with effective procedures in place to protect pupils. Staff are well-trained to recognize signs of abuse and neglect, and they collaborate with external agencies to ensure pupil safety.
Governance at the school is robust, with governors actively supporting and challenging school leaders. They are aware of the school's strengths and areas for development, working collaboratively to monitor progress and impact on learning. Staff report feeling supported and valued, contributing to a positive school culture.
Overall, Fishponds Church of England Academy has made commendable strides in improving its educational offerings and fostering a supportive environment for its pupils. The school is well-positioned to continue its development and address the areas identified for improvement, ensuring that all pupils receive a high-quality education.
