Thorp Academy, located in Ryton, Tyne and Wear, is recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on June 18 and 19, 2024. The principal, Joanna Macaulay, leads the school, which is part of the Northern Education Trust. The trust is overseen by CEO Robert Tarn and a board of trustees chaired by Mark Henry Sanders. The school is also supported by an executive principal and a senior executive principal, ensuring a collaborative approach to leadership across multiple institutions.
The school is characterized by its inclusive and ambitious environment, where staff are dedicated to the development and support of every pupil. Daily celebrations of student achievements foster motivation and self-belief among pupils, who are noted for their politeness and friendliness. The school maintains high expectations for student performance, reflected in its ambitious curriculum designed to help pupils overcome learning barriers. As a result, students engage actively in lessons and produce high-quality work, achieving commendable results.
Thorp Academy is noted for its calm and orderly atmosphere, which contributes to a positive learning environment. Pupils respond well to staff instructions and established routines, demonstrating good behavior in lessons. The school effectively addresses any inappropriate behavior, ensuring it does not persist. Personal development is prioritized, with pupils enjoying cultural visits and a variety of clubs and extracurricular activities. The ‘iAspire’ challenge is particularly popular, with students taking pride in their achievements and roles such as student councillors and well-being ambassadors.
The curriculum at Thorp Academy is broad and ambitious, allowing pupils to build knowledge and skills progressively. A significant majority of students at key stage four pursue the English Baccalaureate, alongside a range of vocational courses that align with local employment opportunities. The school ensures that both academic and vocational pathways are available, preparing students well for their future education and careers. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive the same curriculum as their peers, with tailored support to meet their individual needs.
Reading is a key focus at Thorp Academy, with prompt identification of pupils requiring additional help. Specific support programs in phonics, reading fluency, and comprehension are in place, fostering confident and fluent readers. The school promotes a love for reading through various initiatives, including reading lessons and author visits. Teachers consistently apply the school’s teaching model, presenting new information clearly and revisiting prior learning to reinforce understanding. However, there are instances where the depth of knowledge retention could be improved, indicating a need for further pedagogical training for staff.
Pupils exhibit positive attitudes towards learning, and the school effectively manages low-level disruptions. Attendance initiatives have successfully reduced absence rates to national averages, contributing to a conducive learning climate. The personal development program is comprehensive, covering essential topics such as relationships, health, and career exploration, equipping pupils with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their futures.
Overall, Thorp Academy provides a high-quality education, supported by the Northern Education Trust, which offers professional development opportunities for staff. The school’s leadership is held accountable by trustees and local governors, ensuring a focus on quality provision and pupil outcomes. Staff report high job satisfaction, with manageable workloads and a focus on well-being. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school is committed to continuous improvement, with plans to enhance teaching practices to further secure and deepen pupils’ knowledge and understanding.
