The Barnes Wallis Academy, located in Tattershall, Lincolnshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on December 6 and 7, 2022. The leadership and staff at the academy are committed to ensuring that all pupils achieve their best, demonstrating a strong determination for student success. The governors and trust have acted promptly to provide effective interim leadership, which has contributed to the school's continued smooth operation.
The curriculum at the academy is well-structured and thoughtfully planned. School leaders have identified essential knowledge across subjects, ensuring that lessons align with the curriculum plan. This alignment allows pupils to make significant progress, with teachers adapting lessons and providing additional support as needed. Consequently, students are achieving commendable results.
The school fosters a harmonious community where bullying is infrequent, and pupils report that any incidents are handled effectively by the leadership. The behavior policy in place promotes positive conduct among students both in classrooms and throughout the school environment. However, there is a noted gap in communication regarding this policy to parents and caregivers.
The academy offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music productions, and charitable initiatives. Pupils are encouraged to engage in new experiences, such as attending performances at the Royal Opera House. This variety enriches the educational experience and supports personal development.
In the absence of the headteacher, interim leaders have maintained access to learning for pupils and have a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. They have implemented effective plans to address identified needs. The curriculum is ambitious and well-designed, outlining key knowledge and skills for each subject, and has been tailored specifically for the Barnes Wallis Academy.
Lessons are delivered in a consistent manner, with pupils aware of teacher expectations, leading to positive responses. Most teachers effectively use assessments to adapt their teaching and identify the next steps for pupils. However, there are instances where some lessons do not allow sufficient time for pupils to fully grasp new concepts before progressing.
Teachers possess strong subject knowledge and collaborate within departments, benefiting from professional development opportunities. They enjoy their roles at the school, and leaders consider their workload when introducing new policies. The school prioritizes reading, with pupils engaging in daily reading of classic novels and receiving targeted support if they fall behind.
Students with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support, with staff knowledgeable about effective strategies for these pupils. However, some parents express uncertainty regarding how the school systems support their children.
The behavior policy is effectively implemented, resulting in minimal disruption during lessons. Leaders take incidents of bullying seriously and address them appropriately. Attendance tracking systems are rigorous, contributing to a return to pre-pandemic attendance levels.
The school has a well-structured personal development program, with dedicated lessons and activities that teach essential life skills, including relationships and sex education. Pupils receive guidance on their educational pathways.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with effective systems for reporting and tracking concerns. Staff receive regular training, and pupils feel safe, knowing whom to approach with concerns. They are educated on recognizing potential risks, including online safety.
While the school has established an effective curriculum, inconsistencies in its implementation exist in some lessons. Leaders should ensure that the curriculum is delivered uniformly to enhance pupil retention and application of knowledge. Additionally, strategies to engage parents and caregivers in understanding school systems should be developed to foster better communication and support.
