Seahaven Academy, located in Newhaven, has been recognized for its overall effectiveness, receiving a Good rating in its recent inspection. The school offers a challenging academic curriculum complemented by strong pastoral care, which collectively supports students in achieving positive outcomes. The curriculum is thoughtfully designed to equip pupils with essential skills and experiences that prepare them for life in modern Britain. Students express satisfaction with their school experience, feeling happy and valued within an ambitious community. The broad range of extracurricular activities, including visits to local sites, enhances their appreciation for the community.
The learning environment at Seahaven Academy is calm and welcoming, fostering a culture where pupils appreciate their tutors' engagement, particularly during reading sessions. Discussions around social and moral issues stemming from literature are encouraged, and Year 11 students particularly enjoy poetry workshops. Safety is a priority, with pupils feeling secure and respecting themselves and others. The school is committed to inclusivity, ensuring that students with special educational needs and disabilities are fully integrated and supported.
Behaviour within the school is commendable, with instances of bullying being rare and addressed promptly when they occur. The school maintains strong links with post-16 providers, ensuring that nearly all students continue their education after leaving. Leaders and governors uphold high expectations, and the curriculum is well-structured and sequenced. Professional development for teachers is prioritized, enhancing their subject knowledge and teaching methods. The curriculum aligns with national standards and is tailored to meet the needs of all pupils, including those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs.
Literacy is a significant focus, with reading actively promoted across various subjects. The personal, social, and health education program has been responsive to the challenges posed by the pandemic, although there are areas for improvement in its clarity and implementation in key stage four. Teachers utilize a variety of assessment methods to inform planning and curriculum adjustments, although students sometimes struggle to understand how to leverage assessment feedback for their learning.
Relationships between staff and students are supportive, with clear behaviour expectations leading to minimal disruption in lessons. The school is actively working to improve attendance and reduce exclusions, employing alternative provisions when necessary. Pupils are encouraged to understand their rights and responsibilities, and they receive comprehensive career guidance, preparing them for future opportunities.
Staff members express positive sentiments regarding the leadership and management of the school, noting that their professional needs are well addressed. The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with staff receiving regular training to identify and respond to risks. The school prioritizes the welfare and safety of all pupils, teaching them about various risks, including online safety and peer-on-peer abuse.
To enhance its effectiveness, the school should focus on improving the clarity and sequencing of the PSHE curriculum in key stage four and ensure that assessment practices are utilized more effectively to deepen students' understanding. Overall, Seahaven Academy demonstrates a commitment to fostering a supportive and enriching educational environment for its pupils.
