St Giles Church of England Academy is recognized as a good school, demonstrating a strong commitment to creating a positive and nurturing environment for its pupils. The school is characterized by a calm and caring atmosphere, underpinned by a robust Christian ethos that fosters respect among all members of the school community. Feedback from parents highlights the dedication of the staff, who are described as approachable and willing to go above and beyond to support students in their learning. Pupils exhibit exemplary behavior, showing kindness and respect towards one another, and they feel secure in the knowledge that any concerns, including bullying, will be addressed promptly by teachers.
The school maintains strong connections with the local community, collaborating with various organizations and supporting local charities. This engagement enriches the curriculum and provides pupils with opportunities to contribute positively to their community. The junior leadership team plays an active role in enhancing the school environment and supporting younger students, demonstrating leadership and responsibility.
St Giles offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities that complement the academic curriculum, allowing pupils to explore their interests and develop new skills. The leadership team is committed to ensuring that all pupils achieve their best, supported by dedicated staff who are well-trained and motivated. The school has made significant strides in improving early reading, with a strong emphasis on phonics from the outset of a child's education. Teachers are well-equipped to support pupils who may struggle to meet expected standards, ensuring that all children receive the help they need.
While pupils are proficient in decoding words, there is a need for further development in reading comprehension. Some students struggle to understand the meaning of what they read and do not consistently use textual evidence to support their answers. The English leader is aware of these challenges and is actively working to enhance the reading curriculum to improve comprehension skills.
In mathematics, the curriculum is effective, particularly for pupils in key stage two, who demonstrate strong problem-solving abilities. However, there are still some pupils in key stage one who do not meet expected standards. The mathematics leader is collaborating with staff to ensure that the curriculum is clearly defined and that pupils build their mathematical understanding progressively.
Pupils enjoy history and engage in inquiry-based learning, often linking their studies to local visits that make the subject more relevant and engaging. The history curriculum is well-structured, allowing pupils to develop age-appropriate skills and knowledge.
The school is inclusive, with staff providing excellent support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring their full participation in school life. Staff morale is high, with teachers feeling valued and supported by their leaders, who are mindful of their workload and well-being.
To continue improving, the school should focus on enhancing reading comprehension and ensuring that the curriculum is comprehensive and sequenced effectively across all subjects. Additionally, providing more opportunities for writing across the curriculum will further develop pupils' skills. Overall, St Giles Church of England Academy is a well-led institution that prioritizes the well-being and academic success of its pupils while fostering a strong sense of community and respect.
