Burnage Academy for Boys, located in Manchester, has been recognized as an outstanding school following its recent inspection. The headteacher, Karl Harrison, also serves as the chief executive officer of the single-academy trust that oversees the school, which is governed by a board of trustees chaired by Alan Scott. The inspection took place on January 30 and 31, 2024, and the findings reaffirmed the school's exceptional educational standards.
Students at Burnage Academy describe their school as a supportive environment conducive to learning. Despite facing various challenges in their lives, pupils receive a high-quality education that empowers them to excel. The staff are dedicated to providing every opportunity for success, and students consistently meet the school's high expectations, achieving results that surpass national averages in external examinations.
The school emphasizes the importance of conduct, fostering a safe atmosphere where pupils behave sensibly and build positive relationships with staff. Students feel confident that their concerns will be addressed, contributing to a respectful and kind school culture. The curriculum promotes understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures and religions, which helps to minimize instances of bullying, ensuring that any occurrences are swiftly managed.
Burnage Academy encourages students to take on leadership roles, enhancing their self-confidence and preparing them to become responsible young men. Older pupils particularly value the independence granted to them, allowing them to create lasting memories of their school experiences.
The curriculum at Burnage Academy is broad and rich, designed to connect ambitious knowledge with cultural and social experiences that enrich academic learning. The school has carefully identified the essential information that students need to learn, ensuring that staff are well-prepared to deliver the curriculum effectively. Teachers demonstrate expertise and passion in their subjects, layering new knowledge on top of what students already know. They utilize various assessment strategies to identify and address any gaps in learning, ensuring that pupils retain a wealth of knowledge.
The school is proactive in identifying additional needs among its students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, as well as those who speak English as an additional language. Staff use detailed information to provide tailored support, enabling all pupils to thrive. Reading is prioritized, with students exposed to a diverse range of texts and opportunities to engage with subject-specific language, which enhances their ability to articulate their learning.
Pupils exhibit polite and respectful behavior, contributing to a calm learning environment. Disruptions are minimal, and when behavioral challenges arise, staff provide commendable support to help students make better choices. Attendance is closely monitored, and the school takes steps to assist any pupils facing difficulties in maintaining regular attendance.
The personal development program at Burnage Academy is comprehensive, addressing critical issues relevant to modern society, such as democracy and online misinformation. The school also offers a thorough careers program, equipping students with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about their futures.
The trust and school share a unified vision for education, with trustees actively supporting the school in overcoming challenges. Staff express pride in being part of a cohesive team, noting that leaders value their input and have made efforts to reduce their workload. The safeguarding arrangements in place are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all students. This inspection marks the first ungraded assessment since the school was last judged outstanding in October 2018, confirming its continued excellence in education.
