Ofsted conducted a monitoring inspection of Unity Academy Blackpool on November 29, 2023, following a previous judgment that the school required improvement. The purpose of this inspection was to assess the progress made by the school since the last graded inspection, rather than to assign an overall effectiveness grade. The inspection involved discussions with the headteacher, other school leaders, the chief executive officer, staff, governors, and a representative from the local authority. Observations included visits to lessons, meetings with pupils, and a review of their work and relevant documentation.
The findings indicate that while progress has been made, further work is necessary for the school to achieve a good rating. The school is encouraged to complete its curriculum development to ensure that pupils can pursue a wider range of qualifications that align with their needs and interests. Additionally, it is essential for teachers to effectively utilize newly introduced assessment strategies to identify and address gaps in pupils' knowledge.
Since the last inspection, there have been several new appointments to the board of trustees, and the trust's scheme of delegation has been revised. The school has reorganized roles and responsibilities within its senior leadership team. These changes are part of the school’s efforts to address previously identified weaknesses. The curriculum has been reviewed and is now broader and more balanced, meeting national curriculum requirements. For instance, all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, have increased time to study humanities subjects at key stage three. However, the overall design of the curriculum is still being finalized, and some pupils at key stage four do not currently access qualifications that best meet their needs.
The school has taken steps to identify essential knowledge for pupils from early years through to Year 11, providing clarity for teachers regarding learning expectations. With support from the trust, teachers have received necessary training to deliver the curriculum effectively, resulting in improved learning outcomes for pupils. However, the changes have not yet positively impacted the Year 11 cohort of 2023, whose examination results were below national averages. Some older pupils still exhibit gaps in their subject knowledge due to previous curriculum weaknesses, and while a common approach to assessment has been introduced, its effectiveness in identifying and addressing learning gaps needs improvement.
Reading remains a priority for the school, which has responded to a decline in phonics screening results by ensuring that struggling pupils receive adequate support. The school has also revamped its approach to identifying and addressing the needs of pupils with special educational needs, working closely with external agencies to enhance support. This has allowed for earlier access to specialist help, and teachers are now better equipped to adapt the curriculum for these pupils.
Leadership capacity has been strengthened through the reorganization of roles, and governors and trustees are receiving relevant information to focus on improving educational quality. The school has also made strides in managing pupil behavior, with training leading to a more consistent approach among staff. Suspension rates have decreased, contributing to a more positive school culture, although some legacy issues with pupil attitudes persist.
The school has improved its personal development program, with staff delivering lessons on personal, social, and health topics, as well as career guidance. The trust effectively utilizes external support to audit the school's provision, facilitating ongoing reflection and improvement. Overall, while Unity Academy Blackpool has made notable progress, continued efforts are required to ensure that it meets the standards necessary for a good rating.
