Viewley Hill Academy, located in Hemlington, Middlesbrough, is recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 14 and 15, 2022. The school is characterized by a welcoming and positive atmosphere where pupils are eager to learn and demonstrate excellent behavior. The staff maintain high expectations and actively promote politeness and confidence among students. The culture within the school encourages pupils to support one another, fostering a sense of community and care.
Safety is a priority at Viewley Hill Academy, with adults ensuring that pupils feel secure and supported. Students express confidence in the adults' willingness to listen and assist with any issues they may face. The school effectively addresses bullying, which is reported to be uncommon, and pupils are well-informed about how to handle such situations. The leadership team is dedicated to providing memorable experiences and ensuring that all pupils achieve their potential. Parents and carers appreciate the communication from staff regarding their children's progress, highlighting the supportive environment cultivated by the school.
The curriculum at Viewley Hill Academy is ambitious and well-structured, allowing pupils to enjoy their learning experiences. Leaders have developed clear plans for most subjects, although the pandemic has slowed the development of some wider curriculum areas. However, improvements are actively being made, and leaders regularly assess the quality of education to ensure ongoing enhancement. The school provides excellent support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that all students are held to high standards.
Teachers are attentive to pupils' understanding, addressing misconceptions promptly and revisiting prior learning to reinforce knowledge retention. While this practice is strong in many subjects, there are areas where the effectiveness of lesson planning could be improved to better facilitate deeper understanding. In the early years, children are introduced to phonics from their first days, with a language-rich environment that supports their reading development. As pupils progress, they become increasingly independent readers, with additional support provided when gaps in learning are identified.
Mathematics is another area where pupils show great enthusiasm, with a carefully sequenced curriculum that builds knowledge over time. Teachers create engaging activities that help students develop confidence in their mathematical abilities. The positive behavior and conduct of pupils reflect the quality of teaching and the values instilled by the staff. From an early age, children learn the importance of cooperation and understanding differences, which contributes to a thoughtful and inclusive school culture.
The safeguarding measures in place at Viewley Hill Academy are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks. The school provides numerous opportunities for pupils to learn about safety, both in school and in the community. Personal, social, and health education is integrated into the curriculum, equipping students with knowledge about well-being and safety.
While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all teachers effectively utilize prior knowledge in their lesson planning. Subject leaders are encouraged to provide further support to enhance teachers' confidence in delivering the curriculum as intended. Overall, Viewley Hill Academy continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils, fostering a love of learning and a strong sense of community.
