Woodwater Academy, located in Exeter, Devon, has recently undergone an inspection on the 5th and 6th of March 2024, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school is led by headteacher Rachel Olivant and is part of the Ventrus Limited multi-academy trust, overseen by CEO Gary Chown and a board of trustees chaired by David Edwards. The school caters to pupils aged 3 to 11 and has a current enrollment of 333 students.
The inspection highlighted that pupils at Woodwater Academy are happy and feel safe in an inclusive environment. Parents express high satisfaction with the care and support their children receive, and the school maintains high expectations for both academic achievement and behavior. Pupils demonstrate eagerness to learn and show a willingness to cooperate with one another. The school’s well-established routines contribute to a calm and positive atmosphere, exemplified by the practice of listening to music upon arrival, which encourages reflection on the school’s values.
The curriculum at Woodwater Academy is described as exceptional, supporting personal development through various residential trips and activities that foster resilience, teamwork, and cultural understanding. Pupils have access to a wide range of extracurricular clubs and activities, allowing them to explore their interests and talents, from music to sports. The school ensures that all pupils can participate in these opportunities without barriers.
The quality of education is rated as good, with a broad and ambitious curriculum designed to build on prior knowledge. In subjects like geography, pupils learn to describe different environments, while early years focus on vocabulary development to prepare children for future learning. However, the inspection noted that in some subjects, assessment practices do not effectively identify gaps in pupils' understanding, which can hinder their learning progression.
Reading is a strong focus at Woodwater Academy, with each class named after a famous author to promote a love of literature. The school carefully selects reading materials to align with the phonics being taught, ensuring that all pupils receive the necessary support to keep up with their peers. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support, with parents actively involved in reviewing their child’s educational plans.
Punctuality and attendance are high, with effective support systems in place for those needing assistance. The school promotes understanding of equality and diversity through thoughtful selection of literature and guest speakers, fostering empathy among pupils. Opportunities for pupils to engage in community service and leadership roles further develop their skills and sense of responsibility.
The personal, social, and health education curriculum is tailored to the school’s context, addressing local risks and emphasizing communication skills from an early age. Governance is effective, with trustees and local governors ensuring that resources are managed well and that statutory duties are fulfilled. Professional development for staff is prioritized, enhancing the quality of education provided.
The safeguarding arrangements at Woodwater Academy are effective, ensuring that pupils' welfare is a top priority. The inspection concluded that while the school excels in many areas, there is a need for improvement in the use of assessment in certain subjects to ensure that all pupils achieve their full potential. Overall, Woodwater Academy is a supportive and nurturing environment that fosters both academic and personal growth among its pupils.
