Tiverton Academy, located in Selly Oak, Birmingham, has recently undergone an inspection that highlighted its commitment to providing a good quality of education. The school, which is part of The Elliot Foundation Academy Trust, is led by Principal Tracey Dunn and has a strong leadership team that has made significant improvements to the curriculum. The school has high expectations for all pupils, including those in the early years and those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum has been revised to align more closely with national standards, and effective support is provided to ensure that all pupils can access the learning.
Pupils at Tiverton Academy are generally well-behaved and demonstrate respect and kindness towards one another. The school fosters a positive environment where discrimination is not tolerated. When incidents of unkind behavior occur, staff address them appropriately. The school offers a range of extracurricular activities, including clubs and educational visits, which enrich the curriculum and contribute to pupils' personal development. Pupils are taught about safety and well-being throughout their education, ensuring they are well-prepared for life outside of school.
The inspection noted that while the curriculum is effective in many areas, there are still some subjects where teachers are adjusting to new content. In these subjects, the intended learning outcomes may not always be clear, which can hinder pupils' ability to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills. The school is aware of these challenges and is actively working to improve the clarity of learning objectives and the effectiveness of tasks set for pupils.
Tiverton Academy has established effective systems for identifying pupils with special educational needs early on, providing tailored support to ensure they can participate fully in the curriculum. This includes one-on-one support for those with complex needs and adaptations to learning as required. The school also offers sensory circuit sessions to help pupils develop their motor skills.
Teachers at the school utilize effective questioning and marking to assess pupils' understanding and progress. However, the approach to checking retention and recall of knowledge in the wider curriculum is still developing. This gap means that some pupils may have misconceptions or gaps in their learning that are not being addressed promptly.
The school places a strong emphasis on reading, with a revised phonics program that has shown positive results. Most pupils in Year 1 met the expected standard in phonics, and additional support is provided for those who struggle. Reading volunteers assist pupils, boosting their confidence and fluency.
Pupils enjoy their learning experiences and demonstrate positive attitudes towards school. They engage in collaborative learning and follow instructions carefully. The personal development program at Tiverton Academy prepares pupils well for their future, promoting understanding of equality, inclusion, and healthy lifestyles.
The trust overseeing the school has a good understanding of its operations and challenges, providing support and monitoring pupil achievement and staff well-being. The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
Overall, Tiverton Academy is a school that prioritizes the well-being and education of its pupils, with a strong leadership team committed to continuous improvement. While there are areas for development, particularly in the wider curriculum, the school is on a positive trajectory and is dedicated to ensuring that all pupils achieve their potential.
