St Mary Magdalene Academy: The Courtyard is recognized as a good school, continuing to receive praise from parents, carers, pupils, and staff. The school fosters a supportive environment where pupils feel safe and enjoy attending. Staff prioritize building positive relationships with pupils, which is essential for their educational journey. Throughout the day, staff monitor pupils' emotional well-being and provide necessary support. Pupils are encouraged to express their emotions and develop strategies to remain calm and focused on learning. The school promotes high expectations for all pupils, allowing them to explore their unique qualities and plan for their futures. Diversity and inclusion are integral to the school's ethos, creating a culture of tolerance and respect that helps new pupils and staff integrate smoothly.
The leadership team has established effective systems to support pupil behavior, with a shared vision for a positive approach to discipline. Bullying is not tolerated, ensuring a safe learning environment. The curriculum is ambitious and broad, focusing on English, mathematics, and personal development while accommodating the communication and interaction needs of pupils. Pupils engage in various subjects, including cooking, drama, performing arts, and world studies, alongside regular physical education activities.
Recognizing that many pupils enter the school with knowledge gaps, leaders have implemented careful assessments to identify these gaps and tailor teaching accordingly. Teachers regularly check pupils' understanding and retention of knowledge. Lessons are generally free from disruptions, although some pupils may require assistance in regulating their emotions, which staff provide consistently and calmly.
The school places a strong emphasis on pupils' wider development, teaching them about online safety and healthy relationships. In careers education, pupils learn about the world of work and receive guidance on future choices. Leaders collaborate with external agencies, including mental health professionals, to ensure pupils receive comprehensive support.
Reading is prioritized, with pupils exposed to a diverse range of high-quality literature. Those struggling with reading receive individualized instruction to help them catch up. The curriculum also encourages discussions on ethical and moral issues, fostering critical thinking and understanding of different perspectives. Pupils develop the skills and knowledge necessary for meaningful qualifications and grow into resilient, independent adults.
Teachers demonstrate secure subject knowledge and a passion for their subjects, effectively engaging pupils in learning. However, in some areas, the curriculum lacks clarity regarding essential knowledge that pupils need to master before tackling complex tasks. This can hinder their ability to complete tasks successfully.
Staff feel well-supported and appreciate the relevant training provided by leaders, which enhances their effectiveness. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities that contribute to pupils' personal development, including trips, theatre visits, and various clubs. Pupils enjoy these additional opportunities, which enrich their educational experience.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance among staff. Leaders ensure that all statutory requirements are met, and the school community understands the vulnerabilities of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Pupils are educated on safety and the potential dangers of social media.
To improve, leaders need to refine the curriculum in certain subjects to clearly define the knowledge pupils should acquire before progressing to more complex tasks. This will help ensure that all pupils consistently develop a deep understanding of the subjects they study. Overall, St Mary Magdalene Academy: The Courtyard is a supportive and effective educational environment that prioritizes the well-being and development of its pupils.
