Easterside Academy, located in Middlesbrough, has been recognized for its overall effectiveness, receiving a Good rating in its recent inspection. The school provides a supportive and motivating environment where pupils are encouraged to excel. The leadership team is committed to ensuring that all students succeed, and this is reflected in the positive relationships between staff and pupils. The curriculum is challenging, particularly in mathematics, and pupils appreciate the high level of support they receive. The school fosters a sense of safety and well-being, with a dedicated Care Team that helps students express their feelings and concerns.
The learning environment at Easterside Academy is well-maintained and inviting, especially in the early years section, where children enjoy a variety of high-quality resources in the outdoor area. Pupils are encouraged to take on leadership roles, such as participating in the Sports Crew, which helps them develop essential communication skills. The school offers a wide range of after-school clubs that cater to various interests and talents, promoting a well-rounded educational experience.
Easterside Academy excels in providing a well-structured and ambitious curriculum that integrates personal, social, and careers education. Educational visits, such as trips to a chocolate factory, enhance pupils' understanding of real-world applications of their learning. While pupils demonstrate confidence in subjects like history, there are areas, such as design technology, where clarity on learning objectives could be improved. Some pupils struggle to recall key knowledge due to fewer opportunities for recap in certain subjects.
Reading is a priority at Easterside Academy, with a structured phonics program in place. However, inconsistencies in its delivery have led to some children not being fully prepared for the key stage one curriculum. The introduction of a phonics tracker is helping staff identify gaps in knowledge, and additional catch-up sessions are being provided for those who need them. The school promotes a rich variety of literature that reflects diverse cultures, enhancing pupils' vocabulary and comprehension skills.
In mathematics, staff demonstrate strong subject knowledge and adapt the curriculum to meet pupils' needs. Regular assessments help identify misconceptions, ensuring that pupils build on their prior learning effectively. Positive attitudes towards learning are evident, with pupils actively engaging in lessons and demonstrating self-awareness regarding their actions.
The personal development program at Easterside Academy is impressive, focusing on positive mental health and providing therapeutic support. Pupils have a solid understanding of British values and protected characteristics, and they engage in community activities, such as meeting with local councillors. The school encourages pupils to take pride in their leadership roles and offers mentoring from business leaders to inspire academic success.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Differences in phonics learning rates among cohorts need to be addressed to ensure all pupils catch up effectively. Additionally, clarity in the curriculum content across all subjects should be enhanced so that teachers know precisely what to teach in each year group. Overall, Easterside Academy is a nurturing environment that prioritizes the well-being and academic success of its pupils, with a commitment to continuous improvement in teaching and learning practices.
