The Priory Belvoir Academy, located in Bottesford, Nottinghamshire, has been assessed as a good school following its recent inspection on February 6 and 7, 2024. Under the leadership of headteacher Levon Newton, the school is part of The Priory Federation of Academies Trust, which is overseen by CEO Ian Jones and a board of trustees chaired by Howard Gee. The school is characterized by a strong sense of community where staff are dedicated to the well-being and academic success of each pupil. Teachers are attentive to individual needs, ensuring that students feel safe and happy while fostering an environment where high expectations are set and met.
Pupils at the academy enjoy their lessons and demonstrate a solid understanding of the material taught. The school promotes a harmonious atmosphere where students collaborate effectively and are eager to succeed. They feel comfortable seeking help from adults when needed. Opportunities for leadership and community involvement are available, allowing students to develop essential life skills through a personal development curriculum that includes topics such as online safety and healthy relationships. The school also encourages participation in extracurricular activities, particularly in sports and the arts, ensuring inclusivity for all students. Contributions to the school community are recognized through the ‘Peacock Pride’ awards.
The curriculum at The Priory Belvoir Academy is well-structured, outlining the essential knowledge and skills for each subject. Teachers consistently plan lessons that cater to the diverse needs of their pupils, ensuring that all students engage with the national curriculum. The school encourages ambitious subject choices for key stage four, preparing students for their future educational paths. Special educational needs and disabilities are taken into account in lesson planning, with effective support provided to help these pupils thrive.
While the school excels in many areas, there are some aspects that require improvement. In certain subjects, the activities provided do not always align with the intended curriculum, leading to gaps in students' skills. It is essential for the school to ensure that all lessons are designed to facilitate the development of necessary knowledge and skills. Additionally, although teachers frequently check for understanding, there are instances where this information is not utilized effectively to adapt lessons, which can result in misconceptions not being addressed.
Reading is emphasized throughout the curriculum, with students encouraged to engage with a variety of texts across subjects. Those who enter the school with weaker reading skills receive targeted support to help them catch up. Overall, pupils exhibit good behavior in lessons and during breaks, and the school has made strides in promoting attendance, which has improved since the COVID-19 pandemic.
The school has implemented a robust strategy for career guidance, providing students with valuable information about their future options, including work experience opportunities and insights into diverse communities. Staff members report feeling well-supported, with a collaborative approach to lesson planning and consideration for their well-being.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The inspection concluded that The Priory Belvoir Academy continues to be a good school, with a clear path for ongoing improvement in specific areas to enhance the educational experience for all students.
