Outwood Academy Newbold has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 22 and 23, 2022. The school fosters a strong sense of pride among its pupils, who feel that their experiences at the academy contribute positively to their personal development. Students express confidence in the school's rules, which are designed to ensure their safety and well-being. The staff's commitment to addressing any instances of bullying promptly enhances the supportive environment.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are well-supported and feel valued within the school community. They actively share their thoughts on the school's strengths and areas for improvement, indicating a culture of openness and responsiveness. The leadership team sets high expectations for all students, who are motivated to meet these standards. Effective behavior management by staff allows pupils to focus on their learning without disruption.
The school has made strides in enhancing mental health support, responding to feedback from students. Younger pupils, particularly those in Year 7, are enthusiastic about the opportunities available to them, such as educational trips. However, some older students feel that the Life lessons do not fully address their needs, suggesting a potential area for development.
Teachers at Outwood Academy Newbold are knowledgeable and provide clear explanations, fostering a challenging yet supportive learning environment. The curriculum is ambitious, although there are instances where pupils may require additional assistance to retain their learning. The school emphasizes the importance of revisiting previously learned material to strengthen long-term memory.
Leaders are dedicated to providing an exceptional education for every child, carefully considering the curriculum's content. They are particularly passionate about exposing pupils to significant literary works and fostering creativity in subjects like art. The school has seen an increase in the number of pupils taking modern foreign languages and other academic qualifications.
The Autism Resource Centre within the school ensures that pupils with autism spectrum disorder are integrated into mainstream classes while receiving tailored support. This inclusive approach allows these pupils to achieve alongside their peers. Teachers are adept at preparing students for examinations, although there is a need for more opportunities to review past learning.
Pupils engage with a diverse range of subjects in key stage three, while those in key stage four have faced some learning gaps due to the pandemic. Leaders plan to ensure that all pupils have access to a broad curriculum throughout their education. Sixth-form students appreciate the supportive nature of their teachers and the efforts made to address mental health concerns.
The school maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards poor behavior, with staff trained to manage situations effectively. The number of suspensions has decreased significantly, reflecting the success of this approach. However, pupils have mixed feelings about the personal development curriculum, with some desiring more opportunities for discussion on relevant issues.
Staff generally feel supported by leadership in managing their workload, although some express concerns about additional burdens. The governing body plays an active role in the school's operations, ensuring that the local community's voice is heard and that performance data is utilized effectively to drive improvement.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff trained to recognize and respond to concerns. Pupils receive education on safety in various contexts, and the school has established procedures to address issues of harassment and abuse. Overall, while Outwood Academy Newbold is performing well, there are areas identified for further enhancement, particularly in personal development and ensuring that all pupils feel their needs are met.
