LWS Academy, located in Sarisbury Green, Southampton, underwent an inspection on June 27 and 28, 2023, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school provides specialized support for pupils with social, emotional, and mental health difficulties, with all students having an education, health, and care plan. The inspection highlighted the positive impact of the expert training of staff, who understand the complex needs of the pupils. The relationships between pupils and staff are characterized by warmth and kindness, fostering a safe environment conducive to learning. Pupils feel secure and are encouraged to participate actively in lessons.
The school has high ambitions for its pupils, and many students, by Year 10, have developed clear and ambitious plans for their futures. The curriculum is sequenced and ambitious, designed to meet the needs of the pupils. Leaders have made adjustments to address gaps in learning, allowing pupils to progress well through the intended curriculum. Teachers generally plan engaging lessons that help pupils build knowledge over time, although there are some subjects where lesson activities do not fully align with the curriculum's high expectations, resulting in inconsistent learning outcomes.
Reading instruction is a priority, with a robust strategy in place that equips pupils with essential comprehension skills. Staff conduct regular assessments to identify pupils needing additional support, particularly in phonics, and provide targeted interventions to help them improve their reading skills. The school promotes a sense of inclusion, with effective provisions for special educational needs and disabilities. Staff are well-trained to address the diverse needs of pupils, ensuring seamless support in the classroom.
Leaders emphasize the personal development of pupils, teaching them to respect and understand differences through cultural education. While the school offers various extracurricular opportunities, there is a need for clearer intended outcomes and a more structured approach to these activities to enhance pupils' life skills and character development. The school also provides alternative provisions to prepare pupils for future employment, including sessions in mechanics and construction, and offers guidance on education and training options from Year 7 onwards.
Despite the positive aspects, the school faces challenges with persistent absence, which remains too high, affecting some pupils' ability to benefit fully from the educational offerings. Leaders are encouraged to explore additional strategies to improve attendance. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with well-trained staff who are vigilant in identifying and addressing the needs of pupils and their families. The school maintains organized and detailed safeguarding records, demonstrating a commitment to pupil safety.
Overall, LWS Academy has made significant strides since its previous inspection, where it was rated as requiring improvement. The dedication of the leadership team and staff to fostering a supportive and effective learning environment is evident. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring consistent implementation of curriculum changes across all subjects and enhancing the personal development framework to better equip pupils for life beyond school. The commitment to continuous improvement is clear, and with focused efforts, the school can further enhance its educational offerings and outcomes for all pupils.
