Green Gates Academy, located in Stockton-on-Tees, underwent an inspection from October 8 to 9, 2019, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management were all rated as good. This marked a significant improvement from the previous inspection, which rated the school as requiring improvement.
Pupils expressed their enjoyment of attending the school, evident in their cheerful demeanor as they arrived each day. The school fosters an environment where staff and leaders are ambitious for their students, promoting a culture where pupils are encouraged to be their best. Students feel cared for and supported, understanding that challenges can be overcome and that each day presents a new opportunity. The school community is characterized by pride in uniform and a sense of respect among peers. Incidents of bullying are rare, and when they do occur, staff address them effectively.
While most pupils exhibit good behavior, there are moments of disruption, which staff manage with understanding and prompt action. The school emphasizes diverse learning experiences, with pupils participating in activities such as boat trips, kayaking, and bee-keeping, which enhance their understanding of the world and aid in retention of knowledge.
The curriculum is firmly rooted in the national standards, with staff adept at tailoring it to meet the diverse needs of pupils. Curriculum leaders regularly assess what strategies best support learning. For instance, in science, hands-on investigations help pupils remember key concepts, as demonstrated by their ability to recall details about the digestive system after engaging in practical activities.
The school has made notable strides in mathematics since the last inspection, ensuring that the curriculum is structured to build on prior knowledge effectively. Leaders are also focused on enhancing writing skills, implementing a handwriting program to assist pupils in developing their motor skills for writing. However, there is a need for further planning to provide more opportunities for pupils to practice writing across different subjects.
Art is a strong point at the school, with a well-structured curriculum that allows pupils to explore their creativity while learning about global cultures. The artwork displayed throughout the school reflects the pride pupils take in their artistic endeavors. Since the last inspection, leaders have made significant improvements to the curriculum, combining high expectations with a focus on building knowledge and skills, resulting in better pupil achievement.
Reading is prioritized, with a commitment to ensuring all pupils learn to read. The selection of books for early readers aligns with their phonics learning, and specialized training for teachers supports those who enter school as non-readers. Daily storytime sessions have fostered a love for reading among pupils.
The school offers various opportunities for personal development, including extracurricular activities like horse riding and swimming, as well as outdoor learning experiences. However, the science curriculum planning does not currently incorporate these valuable experiences, which could enhance learning.
Leaders actively support parents in helping their children succeed, although attendance at workshops designed to assist parents in supporting their children's learning has been low. Strengthening relationships with parents is recognized as essential for reinforcing pupils' knowledge.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, ensuring a safe environment for pupils. Staff are well-trained to identify safeguarding issues, and the school collaborates with external agencies to maintain pupil safety. Overall, Green Gates Academy has made commendable progress since its last inspection, with a clear focus on improving educational outcomes and fostering a supportive community for its pupils.
