Nottingham University Academy of Science and Technology, located in Dunkirk, Nottingham, was inspected on 28 and 29 September 2022. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management all receiving a good rating. The sixth-form provision was rated as outstanding. The school has made significant progress since its previous inspection in June 2017, where it was also rated good.
Pupils at the school report feeling safe and happy, with a strong support system in place. They appreciate the school's focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, which is reflected in the curriculum. Staff maintain high expectations for pupil behaviour, contributing to a calm and focused learning environment. Relationships among pupils and staff are respectful, and the new behaviour policy has positively impacted conduct and attitudes. While some bullying occurs, pupils express confidence in the adults' ability to address it effectively.
The sixth-form students benefit from exceptional provision, with parents and carers expressing overwhelming positivity about the school's teaching staff and the educational foundation provided. Students feel a sense of belonging and support, describing the school as a welcoming community. The curriculum is ambitious, offering a range of subjects, including Spanish, music, and art, while allowing pupils to specialize in engineering and science as they progress through their education. The increased uptake of the English Baccalaureate suite of subjects at key stage four indicates the curriculum's effectiveness in preparing pupils for future academic and vocational opportunities.
Leaders have developed a curriculum that builds pupils' knowledge and skills over time, particularly in mathematics. Teachers effectively check pupils' understanding and adapt their teaching to address gaps in knowledge. This approach ensures that pupils retain and build upon their learning. The school is fostering a culture of reading, with initiatives such as sixth-form students acting as reading buddies for younger pupils. However, some pupils still require additional support to become fluent readers.
The school has made strides in supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, although there are areas for improvement, particularly for younger pupils. Attendance has improved in the sixth form, but regular absenteeism remains an issue for some pupils, impacting their learning. The school provides a range of experiences that support pupils' spiritual and moral development, promoting equality and celebrating diversity.
Leaders have established a comprehensive personal, social, health, and economic education program, preparing pupils for life in modern Britain. Sixth-form students are encouraged to engage in community service, further enhancing their personal development. The governance structure, including trustees and governors, provides strong support and challenge to the school's leadership, ensuring a focus on staff welfare and pupil achievement.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with leaders prioritizing the safety and welfare of pupils. Staff receive regular training and are well-informed about their responsibilities. The school collaborates with external agencies to provide additional support when necessary.
To improve further, the school must enhance support for pupils at the early stages of reading to ensure they become fluent readers. Additionally, leaders need to ensure that the needs of all pupils with special educational needs are met effectively, particularly for younger pupils. Addressing attendance issues for regularly absent pupils is also a priority to ensure they do not miss out on essential learning opportunities.
