Ormiston Chadwick Academy
Liverpool Road, Widnes, WA8 7HU
Pupils
948
Ages
11 - 16
Gender
Co-educational
Type
Academy Sponsor Led
Head Teacher
Mrs Jennifer Lowry-Johnson
Ormiston Chadwick Academy, with 948 pupils aged 11-16, has a strong academic performance, with 19% achieving high scores in key stage 2. However, 30% fall into the low cohort, indicating room for improvement. The average score of 103.3 is respectable, but there is potential for growth.
In terms of pastoral care, the school caters to a diverse student body, with only 1% having SEN statements or EHC plans. English is an additional language for 5% of students, highlighting the school’s inclusive approach.
Extra-curricular activities play a vital role in the school’s atmosphere, offering students a chance to explore their interests outside the classroom. This holistic approach to education enhances students’ overall wellbeing and development.
Looking ahead, Ormiston Chadwick Academy continues to strive for excellence, with upcoming open days providing prospective students and parents with a first-hand look at the school’s offerings.
In conclusion, Ormiston Chadwick Academy’s focus on academic achievement, inclusive environment, and diverse range of extra-curricular activities make it a well-rounded educational institution for students of all faiths and backgrounds.
Ormiston Chadwick Academy, located in Widnes, Cheshire, has recently undergone an inspection on May 14 and 15, 2024, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school, which is part of the Ormiston Academies Trust, is led by Principal Jennifer Lowry-Johnson and overseen by CEO Tom Rees and Chair of Trustees Julius Weinberg. The academy has a history of high performance, having previously been rated outstanding in its last inspection in December 2016.
The school fosters a friendly and caring environment where pupils feel safe and happy. Positive relationships between students and staff contribute to a supportive community. High expectations for learning are evident, with most pupils achieving well across various subjects. The behavior of students is generally good, and they engage actively in their educational activities. Strong pastoral support plays a crucial role in promoting positive attitudes towards learning.
Pupils at Ormiston Chadwick Academy appreciate their roles and responsibilities, such as acting as reading buddies for younger students and participating in trust-wide forums to express their views. The school values student feedback and takes action based on their suggestions. Additionally, a wide range of extracurricular activities is available, including the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme, choir, drama, and various sports clubs, which help broaden students' interests and experiences.
The curriculum is designed to be broad and ambitious, catering for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. This ambition is reflected in the increasing number of students opting for the English Baccalaureate suite of subjects. Subject curriculums are well-defined, allowing teachers to build pupils' knowledge over time. However, some students exhibit gaps in their prior knowledge, which can hinder their ability to connect new concepts effectively.
Teachers generally assess pupils' understanding of subject content, but there are instances where assessment strategies do not fully address deeper learning needs. This can prevent some pupils from achieving a comprehensive understanding of the material. The school effectively identifies students with special educational needs and adapts the curriculum to support their learning, enabling them to succeed.
A strong emphasis is placed on vocabulary development and fostering a love for reading across subjects. Staff are proactive in identifying pupils who struggle with reading and provide necessary support to help them catch up. The overall atmosphere in classrooms is calm and orderly, contributing to a conducive learning environment.
Attendance is prioritized, and while some improvements have been made, challenges remain in addressing low attendance rates and punctuality among certain pupils. This issue affects their learning opportunities and overall school experience. The school implements a well-structured program to promote personal development, covering a range of topics to prepare students for life in modern Britain. Pupils engage in discussions about moral and social issues and learn to respect diversity.
The leadership team, including trustees and local governing body members, is well-equipped to fulfill their roles and hold the school accountable for educational quality. Staff report feeling supported by the school and the trust, with collaborative opportunities that help reduce workload.
The safeguarding arrangements at Ormiston Chadwick Academy are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. To improve further, the school should focus on bridging gaps in learning from previous curriculums, enhancing assessment strategies to deepen understanding, and analyzing attendance strategies to provide appropriate support for pupils and their families.
Last Updated: 9 December 2024
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