Stationers' Crown Woods Academy, located in Eltham, London, has been evaluated as a good school following its inspection on January 17 and 18, 2023. The school demonstrates a strong commitment to the safety and well-being of its pupils, fostering close relationships between staff and students through its structure of four small schools. Pupils feel valued and heard, with staff actively listening to their concerns. The school maintains high expectations for behavior, creating a calm and orderly environment where bullying is rare and swiftly addressed. Respect for diversity is emphasized, and pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are fully included in school life.
The curriculum at Stationers' Crown Woods Academy is ambitious and designed to enhance pupils' learning and retention. The sixth form offers a broad range of courses, and teachers maintain high expectations, leading to strong academic achievements evident in pupils' work. The school provides a rich array of extracurricular activities, encouraging pupil involvement in initiatives like the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme and leadership roles, such as mentoring younger students in reading. The careers provision is robust, equipping pupils with the necessary information to make informed decisions about their future.
Leaders at the school are ambitious regarding pupils' learning and have ensured that the curriculum meets or exceeds national expectations. They have thoughtfully planned a curriculum relevant to the pupils' community, introducing new English texts that reflect their identities. Despite challenges in recruitment, leaders have successfully retained a broad curriculum and support all pupils in making ambitious choices for their GCSEs, including the study of modern foreign languages.
The curriculum is sequenced effectively, allowing pupils to build knowledge over time. For instance, in computing, pupils learn various programming languages, which prepares them for more complex concepts like Boolean logic. Teachers possess strong subject knowledge and present new ideas clearly, with curriculum advisers providing additional support. Regular assessments help teachers identify and address misconceptions among pupils.
The school is particularly attentive to the needs of pupils with special educational needs, assigning an adult to support each pupil and ensuring effective communication with families. While many teachers adapt their methods to support these pupils, consistency in this approach remains a focus for improvement.
Reading support is prioritized for pupils in Years 7 to 9, with specific lessons designed to help those needing assistance. Trained staff and sixth-form students lead interventions, including phonics support. The behavior policy has been adapted to emphasize positive relationships, resulting in minimal disruption during lessons.
The curriculum also addresses personal development, teaching pupils about online safety and cultural respect. External workshops, such as those on combating racism, enhance the educational experience. The careers education program is comprehensive, and sixth-form students enjoy mentoring opportunities.
Leaders are aware of the school's strengths and areas for development, supported by knowledgeable governors and trustees. Staff feel supported and believe their workload is managed effectively. While some parents express mixed views about the school, leaders are actively working to improve communication and engagement with families.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff receiving regular training and knowing how to report concerns. Pupils are encouraged to voice their worries, and the safeguarding team responds promptly, maintaining secure and detailed records. The team reflects on their practices and shares important messages with staff, ensuring pupils understand healthy relationships and consent.
To enhance the school's effectiveness, leaders must ensure that support for pupils with special educational needs is consistently tailored to their individual needs. Additionally, they should continue to strengthen communication with parents to foster a positive school community.
