The Skipton Academy has shown significant improvement over recent years, achieving a good rating in its latest inspection. Leaders have successfully raised expectations for student achievement, and pupils express clear ambitions for their future studies and careers. They understand the qualifications necessary to reach their goals, and students, including those with additional needs, are making strong progress across most subjects. The atmosphere in the school is calm, with pupils demonstrating a strong desire to succeed. When behavior does not meet expectations, staff intervene promptly, leading to quick improvements. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they do occur, they are addressed swiftly and effectively, ensuring a supportive environment for all students.
The school's reputation within the local community has improved markedly, resulting in a rapid increase in pupil enrollment. Many students have joined mid-year, and the school provides high-quality support to help them integrate into the community. This growth has allowed for an expansion in the range of qualifications and extracurricular activities available to students. Pupils take pride in attending The Skipton Academy, and parents overwhelmingly recommend the school to others.
Leaders have collaborated closely with colleagues from Moorlands Learning Trust to enhance the school's performance, initially focusing on core subjects such as mathematics, English, and science. The development of strong curriculums has supported both new and established teachers by clearly outlining what students should know and learn. As the school has expanded, leaders have reduced the reliance on temporary staff, opting instead for permanent appointments.
In other subjects, curriculum development has been more recent, and while there is a clear plan for what students will learn, some older pupils have experienced a mix of less rigorous and more challenging curriculums. This has resulted in gaps in their knowledge that are not always recognized or addressed by teachers. Reading is prioritized, with daily sessions led by form tutors, and early readers receive tailored support to ensure rapid progress.
Pupils enter the school with historically low starting points but make strong progress, achieving well by the end of Year 11. Those with special educational needs and disabilities receive expert support, with individualized plans that cater to their specific requirements. Staff are highly supportive of school leaders, noting the transformation the school has undergone in recent years.
Personal development is a key focus, with pupils learning about important issues such as careers, safety, and different faiths. While pupils demonstrate strong knowledge in these areas, leaders have yet to establish clear evaluation methods for the effectiveness of the new personal development curriculum. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, although attendance at clubs is lower than desired. Recent initiatives, such as a loyalty card system, aim to encourage greater participation.
Trustees are well-informed about the school and have effective systems for gathering information regarding educational quality and safeguarding. They work collaboratively with the advisory board to address challenges associated with the school's rapid growth, particularly in maintaining consistent teaching quality across expanding subject departments.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with all staff trained to recognize and report concerns promptly. The designated safeguarding leader evaluates information carefully and takes appropriate action when necessary, including collaboration with external agencies. Pupils are educated on safety issues, equipping them with knowledge to navigate potential risks.
To further improve, the school must address knowledge gaps in subjects where curriculums have recently changed. Leaders should also establish clear methods for evaluating the new personal development curriculum to ensure it meets the intended goals and supports pupils' overall development effectively.
