Lace Hill Academy, located in Buckinghamshire, has recently undergone an inspection on the 5th and 6th of March 2024, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school is led by headteacher Sarah Jones and is part of the Campfire Education Trust, which provides additional oversight and support through its CEO Sarah Mitchell and chair of trustees Liam Harrison. The inspection highlighted several strengths of the school, particularly in the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, and early years provision, all rated as good, while personal development was rated as outstanding.
Pupils at Lace Hill Academy express appreciation for the kindness and welcoming nature of the school community. They find the staff to be helpful and fair, contributing to a positive atmosphere where good behavior is the norm. The students take pride in their diverse backgrounds and enjoy learning about each other's cultures. They demonstrate a strong understanding of how their actions impact others and are eager to ensure that everyone has a positive experience at school. When faced with worries, pupils feel confident in approaching staff for support, knowing that their concerns will be addressed.
The school has established high expectations and ambitions for its students, which motivates them to think about their futures. This is supported by initiatives such as a careers fair and structured teaching that prepares pupils for the next stages of their education. Year 6 students feel well-equipped for secondary school, having developed strategies to tackle future challenges.
Lace Hill Academy offers a purposeful and ambitious curriculum complemented by a variety of additional opportunities that make learning engaging and exciting. The school has effective transition processes in place, ensuring that staff are aware of the individual needs of pupils as they progress through different stages of learning. The curriculum is designed with long-term goals that build from Nursery to Year 6, allowing pupils to understand the importance of continuous knowledge and skill development. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support, ensuring they can access the same learning opportunities as their peers.
While most subjects effectively support learning, there are areas where the curriculum is still developing. In some subjects, the school has not yet clearly defined what will be taught and when, which can lead to inconsistencies in how knowledge is built. The school is prioritizing staff training and support to enhance the consistency of learning across the curriculum.
Pupils who require additional support benefit from early morning intervention sessions, which are well-received by families and contribute to increased confidence among students. Reading is emphasized as a central aspect of learning, with consistent phonics teaching helping pupils to develop their reading skills quickly. The school also promotes diversity through its selection of reading materials, ensuring that pupils are exposed to a range of cultures and perspectives.
The school community is characterized by strong relationships between staff and families, with parents expressing positive views about the school. Leaders collaborate with external agencies when necessary to provide timely support for pupils and their families. Attendance is actively encouraged, with efforts made to help pupils understand the importance of regular school attendance.
Lace Hill Academy excels in promoting pupils' personal development, focusing on respect, resilience, and integrity from early years onward. The school offers a variety of clubs and activities that foster broader interests and community engagement. Pupils are well-informed about safety and health, with initiatives like the Wellbeing Champions supporting their peers. Overall, the school is committed to creating a nurturing environment that prepares pupils to challenge discrimination and understand diversity. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring a safe learning environment for all students.
