The Cedars Academy, located in Birstall, Leicester, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 21 and 22, 2023. The school is characterized by a strong commitment from staff to ensure the best outcomes for their pupils. Leaders have established a clear vision and ambitious goals for the school, which is reflected in the wide range of subjects offered. The curriculum is thoughtfully designed to support the achievement of all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.
Pupils express enjoyment in attending school and feel secure in their environment. They appreciate that their teachers genuinely care about their well-being and value their opinions. Engagement in lessons is high, and students take pride in their school community. The behavior of pupils is commendable, with a new behavior policy implemented by leaders resulting in noticeable improvements in conduct. The school atmosphere is calm, and instances of bullying are infrequent, with staff addressing any issues seriously and effectively.
The school emphasizes the development of life skills, encouraging pupils to take on leadership roles. For instance, sixth-form students serve as reading mentors for younger pupils. A variety of extracurricular activities, including music and sports, enrich the students' educational experience. Leaders have established a curriculum that outlines the essential knowledge pupils should acquire in each subject, ensuring a logical progression of learning that builds knowledge and skills over time.
The school has a higher-than-average proportion of pupils with special educational needs, and teachers adapt their instruction to ensure all students can access the curriculum. Progress is closely monitored, and teaching assistants play a vital role in providing effective support. Recently, a resource base named 'Endeavour' was created to assist vulnerable pupils, fostering a positive learning environment.
Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and effectively model learning strategies for pupils. They employ questioning techniques that enhance understanding and receive high-quality training to manage their workload. In lessons, teachers frequently revisit prior learning, aiding retention and comprehension. They clearly communicate essential knowledge and facilitate discussions that deepen understanding, promptly addressing misconceptions.
Reading is promoted through various initiatives, including read-aloud sessions and a diverse English curriculum. However, some pupils do not engage in independent reading outside of lessons, limiting their opportunities to develop reading fluency. Leaders have introduced a new careers program to guide pupils in their future pathways, with sixth-form students receiving tailored support for university applications. The school is in the early stages of evaluating the effectiveness of this program.
The behavior policy has proven effective, resulting in improved conduct throughout the school. Leaders maintain detailed records of behavior and are beginning to analyze this data to identify areas for further enhancement. The school fosters a harmonious community, and leaders have recently implemented a personal development curriculum that teaches essential life skills. This curriculum addresses broader societal issues, including sexism and misogyny, with pupils actively participating in related initiatives.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with a culture of safety embedded within the school. Leaders ensure that all safeguarding concerns are documented and addressed, and staff receive regular training to stay informed about potential risks. Pupils feel safe and know they can seek help if needed. The school provides opportunities for pupils to learn about safety, including online safety.
To further improve, the school should encourage all pupils to develop a love for reading and ensure that new policies and strategies are effectively evaluated for their impact on student outcomes. Overall, The Cedars Academy continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing a supportive and enriching educational environment for all its pupils.
