St Michael’s Community Academy, located in Crewe, Cheshire, underwent an inspection on 31 October and 1 November 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as requiring improvement, with specific areas such as the quality of education also receiving a similar rating. However, the school demonstrated good performance in behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. Notably, the early years provision was rated as outstanding, indicating a strong foundation for young learners.
The principal, David Jobling, leads the school, which is part of The St Bart’s Multi-Academy Trust. This structure means that the school is supported by a wider network, including the CEO, Lisa Sarikaya, and a board of trustees chaired by Johnny Anderson. The school community is characterized by a commitment to pupil well-being, with students expressing enjoyment in attending school and participating in various activities. The school is particularly welcoming to pupils who join at different times of the year, including those for whom English is a second language, fostering a sense of belonging.
While the school has ambitious goals for academic achievement, particularly for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, there are challenges in ensuring that all pupils build on their early successes. Children in the early years achieve exceptionally well and are well-prepared for Year 1. However, pupils in key stages 1 and 2 do not consistently build on this strong start due to gaps in their learning that are not adequately identified or addressed. This has led to uneven achievement across subjects.
Most pupils exhibit good behavior, and early years children adapt quickly to school routines. Staff provide effective support for those who struggle with emotional regulation, creating a calm learning environment. Pupils engage in various extracurricular activities, and older students take on leadership roles, contributing positively to the school community.
The school has made strides in improving its curriculum since the last inspection, focusing on ambitious educational offerings despite staffing challenges. However, the impact of these changes has not yet fully reached the Year 6 pupils who left in 2023, resulting in some being unprepared for the next stage of their education. In well-established curriculum areas, staff effectively deliver lessons and assess pupil understanding, but newer subjects reveal weaknesses, with some pupils lacking essential knowledge.
The early years curriculum is particularly strong, providing children with high-quality learning experiences. Early reading instruction begins with two-year-olds, and while many pupils in key stage 1 build on this foundation, some gaps in phonics knowledge are not identified promptly. Additionally, pupils who struggle with reading do not always receive the necessary support to become fluent readers, which affects their readiness for key stage 2.
The school effectively identifies the needs of pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they can learn alongside their peers. Personal development is prioritized, with a well-designed curriculum for relationships and health education. Pupils learn about health, safety, and cultural appreciation, preparing them for life in modern Britain.
Parents and carers express high satisfaction with the school, feeling welcomed and valued. The local governing committee is aware of the school’s strengths and weaknesses, providing support and challenge for improvement. The school considers staff workload and well-being in its decision-making processes, contributing to a positive working environment. Overall, while there are areas for improvement, St Michael’s Community Academy is on a positive trajectory, with a strong commitment to enhancing educational outcomes for all pupils.
