Haywood Village Academy, located in Weston-Super-Mare, North Somerset, has been recognized for its outstanding performance in various aspects of education. The school, which opened three years ago, serves children aged 3 to 11 and has quickly established a reputation for excellence. The recent inspection conducted in June 2019 highlighted the school's effectiveness in leadership and management, quality of teaching, personal development, behavior, welfare, and outcomes for pupils, all rated as outstanding.
The leadership team, including trustees and senior leaders, has created a culture that fosters academic, emotional, and social growth among pupils. Their commitment to high standards is evident in the effective strategies implemented to enhance reading skills, ensuring that pupils develop a strong foundation for their learning. The curriculum is designed to be engaging and challenging, often exceeding national expectations in subjects such as reading, writing, and mathematics. This rigorous approach enables pupils to apply their skills across a wide range of subjects, leading to substantial and sustained progress.
Teaching at Haywood Village Academy is characterized by high-quality instruction and strong subject knowledge among staff. Teachers utilize precise assessments to identify and address misconceptions in learning promptly, resulting in significant gains for pupils. The school places a strong emphasis on professional development, ensuring that staff are well-equipped to meet the needs of all learners. High staff morale contributes to a positive learning environment, where pupils feel supported and motivated to excel.
Pupil attendance is commendable, with very few instances of persistent absence. The school has implemented effective strategies to promote good attendance, resulting in high levels of engagement among students. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, as well as disadvantaged pupils, receive tailored support that enables them to make exceptional progress. The school’s commitment to inclusivity ensures that all pupils, regardless of their starting points, have the opportunity to succeed.
In the early years, the provision is outstanding, with children developing a love for stories, music, and language from a young age. The teaching in pre-school and Reception is meticulously planned, allowing children to make rapid progress and be well-prepared for Year 1. Leaders actively work to enhance children's speaking skills, fostering confidence in communication. However, there is an ongoing focus on encouraging children to initiate conversations independently during their learning activities.
Pupils demonstrate resilience and a positive attitude towards challenges, reflecting the school’s emphasis on personal development. They engage in thoughtful discussions, showing respect for differing opinions and developing their debating skills. The school provides a safe and nurturing environment where pupils feel secure and are encouraged to express themselves.
Overall, Haywood Village Academy stands out as a model of educational excellence. The combination of strong leadership, high-quality teaching, and a supportive learning environment contributes to the outstanding outcomes achieved by pupils. The school is committed to continuous improvement, ensuring that it meets the evolving needs of its community while maintaining high standards of education. The positive feedback from parents and the community further underscores the school’s success in providing a high-quality educational experience for all its pupils.
