Ofsted conducted a monitoring inspection of Cliff Park Ormiston Academy on July 18, 2023, to assess the progress made since the last graded inspection. The findings indicate that while the school continues to require improvement, there have been notable advancements in various areas. The leadership team, under the guidance of Principal Harry French, has taken significant steps to enhance the educational experience for pupils. They have established clear guiding principles that help teachers plan engaging lessons, ensuring a consistent classroom experience for students.
Teachers are now presenting information in manageable steps and utilizing well-structured examples, which has positively impacted pupils' understanding and ability to complete learning tasks successfully. The effectiveness of teaching strategies has improved, allowing teachers to better assess what pupils know and enabling students to build on their existing knowledge. This approach has led to improved retention of information and enhanced problem-solving skills among pupils.
However, some subject leaders still need to adapt general teaching methods to suit specific subjects. The leadership team is actively guiding these leaders to make necessary adjustments and has revised quality assurance practices to monitor their progress. Additionally, the support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities has been thoroughly reviewed. Individual plans for these pupils have been re-examined to identify specific barriers to learning, and teachers have received training to help them provide appropriate support. As a result, pupils with SEND are now better able to access the full curriculum and are beginning to learn effectively.
The management of pupil behavior has also seen improvements, with clearer expectations and routines established. This has led to a more consistent approach among teachers, resulting in fewer disruptions during lessons and a calmer school environment. Pupils have reported a significant improvement in behavior since the last inspection, noting that lessons are less frequently interrupted and that movement around the school is orderly.
Efforts to address prejudicial behavior have been implemented, encouraging pupils to reflect on the impact of their words and actions on others. This initiative has been particularly effective with younger students, who report fewer incidents of prejudicial language. Changes to the curriculum have also fostered a sense of responsibility and care among pupils, contributing to a positive school culture where bullying is rare and concerns can be reported confidently.
The leadership team has established a solid foundation for ongoing improvement, with clear plans to adjust the leadership structure to allocate resources effectively. Governors play a crucial role in supporting the school while also holding leaders accountable for their actions and the resulting impact. The trust has provided valuable support, enhancing the school's capacity for sustainable improvement. This collaboration has helped refine strategies for managing behavior and supporting pupils with SEND, leading to positive outcomes.
Overall, while Cliff Park Ormiston Academy still requires improvement, the progress made in teaching, behavior management, and support for pupils with SEND is commendable. The leadership team's commitment to continuous review and adaptation of strategies positions the school well for future advancements. The ongoing support from the trust and the active involvement of governors further strengthen the school's efforts to achieve its goals.
