Grange Academy, located in Kempston, Bedford, is a special academy catering for pupils aged five to sixteen with special educational needs. The school has received a Good rating in its recent inspection, which took place on May 4 and 5, 2022. The inspection highlighted several strengths of the school, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management, all of which were rated as good. The school has maintained this level of performance since its previous inspection in July 2017.
Pupils at Grange Academy demonstrate a strong enthusiasm for learning, arriving at school with smiles and eagerness to engage in lessons. Their behavior is commendable, as they show respect towards each other, staff, and visitors. The school environment is described as calm and purposeful, allowing pupils to concentrate and work effectively. The curriculum is ambitious and designed to help pupils develop their strengths and interests, ensuring they are well-prepared for further education.
Parents and carers express high levels of satisfaction with the school, appreciating the warm and friendly approach of the staff, who cater to the individual needs of each child. The school fosters a strong sense of safety and well-being among pupils, who feel confident that they can approach adults with any concerns. The school has effective measures in place to address bullying, ensuring that pupils are well-supervised during break times.
While the curriculum is generally well-structured, some aspects, particularly in key stage two, lack clarity in content and sequencing. This can hinder pupils' ability to build knowledge securely. Additionally, although leaders have implemented an assessment system to identify learning gaps, not all teachers utilize it consistently, which can affect pupils' retention of knowledge. The school is committed to improving these areas to enhance the overall learning experience.
Grange Academy places a strong emphasis on reading and vocabulary development. Staff are well-trained in phonics instruction, and pupils are provided with reading materials that match their abilities. The revised reading curriculum has positively impacted older pupils' comprehension skills, making reading sessions engaging and relevant to their experiences.
The school prioritizes personal development, offering a thoughtfully planned curriculum that prepares pupils for future careers. Pupils participate in work-related programs and practice interviews, equipping them with essential skills for the job market. The relationships, social, and health education program further supports pupils in understanding diverse cultures and appropriate relationships, preparing them for life in modern Britain.
Staff at Grange Academy feel valued and supported by leadership, appreciating the professional development opportunities provided. The governing body demonstrates a clear understanding of their roles, working collaboratively with school leaders to ensure that improvement priorities are achievable and measurable.
Safeguarding arrangements are robust, with a strong culture of safety embedded within the school. Staff receive comprehensive training, and effective communication with parents and external agencies ensures that any concerns are promptly addressed. The curriculum incorporates important safeguarding themes, empowering pupils with knowledge about personal safety.
In summary, Grange Academy is a well-regarded institution that effectively supports its pupils' educational and personal development. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in curriculum planning and assessment consistency, the school is committed to enhancing the learning experience for all its students. The positive feedback from parents and the dedication of staff contribute to a nurturing and effective educational environment.
