Outwood Academy Carlton is a secondary comprehensive school located in Barnsley, South Yorkshire. The school has undergone significant improvements since its establishment and is currently rated as good in overall effectiveness, leadership and management, and quality of teaching, learning, and assessment. The inspection conducted in January 2019 highlighted the strong leadership at all levels, with leaders demonstrating a commitment to providing high-quality education for all pupils. Staff morale is notably high, supported by a robust professional development program that enhances teachers' skills and knowledge.
The school environment is characterized by a purposeful atmosphere where most pupils engage actively in their learning. Teachers generally maintain high expectations, and most pupils make good progress across various subjects. However, there are instances where the work set does not align well with pupils' individual needs, leading to variable progress in some cases. The support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is effective, particularly for those in the resourced provision for communication and interaction.
The curriculum is broad and balanced, catering for pupils of all abilities and preparing them for future educational pathways. Personal development and welfare are prioritized, with pupils receiving guidance on staying safe and respecting others. Safeguarding measures are effective, and pupils report feeling safe at school. Nonetheless, the school faces challenges regarding behavior management, as some pupils' behavior requires improvement. The rate of fixed-term exclusions has been high, although leaders have made efforts to reduce this figure. Attendance rates, particularly for disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs, remain a concern, with persistent absence rates above the national average.
To further enhance the school's performance, it is essential to improve attendance and reduce persistent absence, particularly among disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs. Additionally, the school aims to decrease the rate of fixed-term exclusions and ensure that all teachers consistently apply the behavior policy. Improving the quality of teaching and learning is also a priority, with a focus on ensuring that all pupils receive appropriately challenging work.
The leadership team has shown a clear understanding of the barriers faced by disadvantaged pupils and has implemented effective strategies to support their progress. The school has established a culture of continuous improvement, with leaders and governors actively seeking to address areas needing development. The governance structure is strong, with governors demonstrating a thorough understanding of the school's strengths and weaknesses and holding leaders accountable for performance.
Overall, Outwood Academy Carlton is a school that has made significant strides in providing a good quality of education. The commitment of leaders, staff, and governors to continuous improvement is evident, and there is a strong capacity for future development. The school is well-positioned to build on its successes and address the challenges it faces, ensuring that all pupils receive the education they deserve and are well-prepared for their next steps in life.
