St Michael’s Academy in Yeovil, Somerset, has been recognized for its overall effectiveness, achieving a rating of good in various areas including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. The school has made significant improvements since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The learning environment at St Michael’s Academy is described as harmonious, with pupils exhibiting excellent behavior, kindness, and enthusiasm for learning. The school fosters a supportive atmosphere where pupils feel encouraged to do their best.
The leadership and staff at St Michael’s Academy provide effective support for pupils facing emotional challenges. Notably, the presence of Buddy the dog has a calming effect on students, helping them develop empathy and care for others. The curriculum is designed to promote academic, social, and emotional development, with pupils learning about democracy through student council elections and taking on roles such as anti-bullying ambassadors. This involvement helps ensure that every pupil feels safe and valued within the school community.
Pupils at St Michael’s Academy have access to a diverse range of subjects, including unique offerings such as archery and stage design. Educational trips, like the visit to the Fleet Air Arm Museum, enhance their understanding of the subjects they study. The school has implemented effective curriculums for English and mathematics, where pupils engage in deep analysis of texts and develop strong mathematical skills through well-structured lessons. The emphasis on collaborative learning allows pupils to articulate their thoughts and support one another’s understanding.
While the school excels in many areas, there are aspects that require attention. Although pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) receive strong pastoral support, there are concerns regarding the specificity of targets set for these pupils, particularly in reading. Some pupils with SEND do not have access to age-appropriate reading materials, which may hinder their progress. Additionally, while the wider curriculum has been thoughtfully planned, there is a need for more consistent assessment of pupils’ understanding across subjects to ensure that knowledge is retained and applied effectively.
The school’s leadership is committed to creating a calm and focused learning environment, which is reflected in the attentiveness of pupils during lessons. Staff members express pride in being part of the school and appreciate the support they receive from leaders regarding their well-being and workload management. The school has established a strong culture of safeguarding, with leaders actively ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. The collaborative efforts between staff and external agencies contribute to a supportive environment where pupils feel cared for and safe.
Governors play an active role in supporting the school’s vision and regularly engage with the school community to gather information that informs their oversight. The school’s commitment to the success of all pupils, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds and those who speak English as an additional language, is evident in the additional support provided to help them thrive academically and socially. Overall, St Michael’s Academy demonstrates a strong commitment to fostering a positive learning environment, though there are areas for improvement that leaders are addressing to enhance the educational experience for all pupils.
