Co-op Academy Southfield is a special school located in Bradford, West Yorkshire, catering for pupils aged 11 to 19 with special educational needs and disabilities. The school operates under The Co-Operative Academies Trust, with Victoria Clough serving as the headteacher. The recent inspection conducted on May 8 and 9, 2024, confirmed that the school continues to be a good institution. The leadership structure includes a chief executive officer, Chris Tomlinson, and an executive headteacher, Ian Berryman, who oversees the school's operations.
The school is characterized by a vibrant and supportive atmosphere where staff are well-acquainted with their pupils. This strong rapport contributes to a calm and purposeful environment conducive to learning. The school has high expectations for its students, offering an ambitious curriculum tailored to individual starting points. While the curriculum is being refined in some subjects to enhance learning progression, there are areas where clarity is needed regarding how teachers can adapt lessons to meet diverse needs.
Pupil behavior is generally positive, with effective support provided for those with complex behavioral needs. However, attendance remains a concern, as some students do not attend regularly enough, which impacts their learning experiences. The school is actively working to address this issue by collaborating with families and external agencies to improve attendance rates.
Personal development is a key focus at Co-op Academy Southfield. The school prepares students for life beyond their education, emphasizing personal and social development through a comprehensive curriculum. Pupils engage in various leadership opportunities, such as participating in the school council and the Co-op young leaders program. The school also prioritizes reading, with daily phonics lessons and personalized interventions for early readers, resulting in significant progress for many students.
The school provides a range of extracurricular activities, including clubs and enrichment programs that enhance pupils' social and emotional skills. Regular school visits and opportunities for sixth-form students to participate in residential activities and the Duke of Edinburgh's Award further contribute to their development.
Staff members report feeling well-supported by school leaders, despite some recent staffing challenges that have increased workloads. The leadership team is mindful of staff well-being, fostering a sense of teamwork and pride among the staff. The board of trustees plays an essential role in providing support and oversight, ensuring that the school remains focused on its strengths and areas for improvement.
Safeguarding measures at the school are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The inspection highlighted the need for continued efforts to clarify curriculum implementation in certain subjects and to address attendance issues for some students. The school is committed to overcoming barriers to regular attendance and ensuring that all pupils have access to quality education and enriching experiences. Overall, Co-op Academy Southfield demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a supportive and effective learning environment for its students, with ongoing efforts to enhance educational outcomes and personal development.
