Witton Park Academy, located in Blackburn, Lancashire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 3 and 4, 2021. The school is committed to high expectations for all pupils, fostering strong relationships between staff and students that contribute to a positive learning environment. Pupils express satisfaction with their school experience, feeling happy and safe, and they appreciate the respect shown towards each other's differences. Incidents of bullying are reported to be rare, and when they do occur, staff respond promptly to resolve issues.
The school promotes high standards of behavior, with most pupils behaving well in lessons and throughout the school. This creates a calm learning environment with minimal disruptions. Pupils are actively engaged in a variety of extracurricular activities that broaden their horizons and enhance their understanding of the world. These activities include trips to significant locations and participation in clubs such as sports and engineering.
Parents and carers generally express appreciation for the quality of education provided at Witton Park Academy, with many recommending the school to others. The leadership team, including governors, ensures that all pupils have access to a broad and ambitious curriculum tailored to their interests and aspirations. In key stage three, initiatives have been introduced to build resilience in learning, while key stage four offers a diverse selection of subjects. Recently, the school has successfully increased the number of pupils studying a modern foreign language, contributing to a higher proportion of students pursuing the English Baccalaureate.
Curriculum plans across all subjects are well-developed, with careful consideration given to the knowledge pupils need to acquire and the sequence in which it is taught. Teachers effectively utilize these plans to create learning activities that reinforce essential knowledge, ensuring lessons build on prior learning. This approach supports pupils in developing a comprehensive understanding of the curriculum, leading to strong academic achievement.
Teachers also prioritize regular review of learning, using assessments to identify and address any misconceptions. They are adept at meeting the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring these students can access the same ambitious curriculum as their peers. The school places a strong emphasis on developing pupils' reading and vocabulary skills, with effective programs in place to support early readers.
While most pupils demonstrate positive attitudes towards learning, a small number of staff may lack confidence in managing behavior, leading to occasional inconsistencies in the application of the school's behavior policy. This can sometimes hinder the learning experience for others. Leaders are encouraged to provide additional training in behavior management to ensure all staff are confident in implementing school procedures.
Witton Park Academy has established a robust program for supporting pupils' personal development, with a focus on relationships and sex education. Pupils are well-prepared for life in modern Britain through a well-structured careers program. The commitment of trustees and governors to support continuous improvement in education quality is evident, and senior leaders effectively manage the school while prioritizing staff well-being.
The safeguarding arrangements at Witton Park Academy are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance and appropriate training for staff. Leaders manage safeguarding referrals efficiently and collaborate with various agencies to provide timely support to pupils and families. Pupils are informed about whom to approach for help and are educated on safety, including online safety.
Overall, Witton Park Academy continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing a high-quality education and a supportive environment for all pupils, ensuring their academic and personal development.
