Cranberry Academy, located in Alsager, Cheshire, has been rated as a good school following its inspection on April 26 and 27, 2022. The school provides a supportive and welcoming environment where pupils thrive. Staff maintain high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Pupils are encouraged to work hard and achieve their best, fostering a culture of respect and politeness among peers and staff. The school prioritizes the safety and well-being of its students, ensuring that they feel secure and supported. Pupils report that there is always someone available to help them with any concerns, and they learn essential skills for maintaining positive relationships and online safety.
The enthusiasm for learning is evident among pupils, who actively engage in discussions and demonstrate a keen interest in their education. This positive attitude is nurtured from early years, where children learn routines that promote independence. The leadership team has implemented a well-structured program to support the broader development of pupils, encouraging them to take on responsibilities and participate in extracurricular activities, including sports and clubs.
Since the previous inspection, the new leadership team has made significant improvements in the quality of education. Leaders work collaboratively with staff to instill values of respect and responsibility in pupils, resulting in good behavior and minimal disruption to learning. The school promotes diversity and offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, enhancing the curriculum through educational trips and residential visits.
The curriculum is designed with high aspirations for all pupils, and leaders have carefully considered the knowledge they want students to acquire. In most subjects, the curriculum is well-organized, allowing pupils to build on their prior learning effectively. However, in a few subjects, the curriculum lacks precision, which can hinder pupil progress. Leaders have prioritized reading instruction, ensuring that children develop phonetic understanding from an early age. Staff provide targeted support for those struggling with reading, helping them to keep pace with their peers.
Teachers focus on language development and communication, starting in early years and continuing through to older pupils, who explore vocabulary through high-quality literature. Assessment practices are effective in most subjects, allowing teachers to identify misconceptions and tailor instruction accordingly. However, in a minority of subjects, assessment strategies are still developing, which can lead to gaps in understanding.
The school has robust systems in place to identify and support pupils with special educational needs, ensuring that their needs are met early on. Staff feel supported by the leadership team, which considers their workload and well-being in decision-making. The governing committee possesses a wealth of experience and a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement.
Parents and carers express positive views about the school, appreciating its caring ethos. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff receiving regular training and being vigilant about potential risks to pupils. Overall, Cranberry Academy demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a positive learning environment, although there are areas identified for further improvement, particularly in refining the curriculum and assessment practices in certain subjects.
