Ingoldsby Academy, located in Grantham, Lincolnshire, is recognized as a good school following its inspection on 23 November 2022. The school is characterized by its inclusive and welcoming environment, where kindness and care are evident among both staff and pupils. Parents express high levels of satisfaction, often recommending the school to others. The leadership team maintains high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that every pupil has access to a comprehensive curriculum. This includes unique opportunities for older students to study Latin.
The behavior of students is commendable, with a calm atmosphere throughout the school. Older pupils serve as positive role models for younger ones, contributing to a harmonious playtime environment. Instances of bullying are reported to be rare, and when they do occur, staff address them promptly and effectively. The school places a strong emphasis on personal development, offering a variety of extracurricular activities that foster students' talents and interests. The arts, including music, dance, and drama, are particularly encouraged, with students noting that participation in these activities boosts their confidence.
The curriculum at Ingoldsby Academy is broad and balanced, clearly outlining what students will learn and when. Early years education is meaningful and engaging, with a focus on vocabulary acquisition and effective communication. However, some older pupils struggle to retain knowledge over time, indicating a need for improvement in how learning is reinforced. The school has made strides in ensuring that all children can read and enjoy reading, with a consistent approach to phonics instruction. Early readers receive strong support, and teachers employ effective strategies to enhance reading skills.
Mathematics instruction is well-planned, but inconsistencies in delivery have been noted. Some pupils' misconceptions are not addressed promptly, leading to repeated mistakes. Teachers utilize various methods to assess pupils' understanding, and students generally appreciate the feedback they receive. Overall, behavior in the school is positive, although there are occasional instances of restlessness when lessons do not align with students' understanding.
The curriculum extends beyond academics, with a focus on developing confident individuals through creative, artistic, and sporting opportunities. Leadership roles, such as house captains and school council representatives, allow pupils to take on responsibilities and represent their school proudly. The school also emphasizes understanding different belief systems and moral issues, helping students gain a broader perspective of the world.
Support for pupils with special educational needs is robust, with tailored strategies to ensure they can engage with the same curriculum as their peers. The headteacher has fostered an inclusive culture where both staff and pupils feel valued, and parents appreciate the school's provisions. The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with a strong culture of safety and regular training for staff to address any concerns.
Despite the school's strengths, there are areas for improvement. Recent curriculum adaptations have led to some pupils struggling to recall previous learning, which affects their ability to connect new knowledge with what they have learned before. Leaders are encouraged to provide more opportunities for knowledge retrieval. Additionally, while the mathematics curriculum is well-structured, the delivery lacks consistency, and staff need further training to effectively check pupils' understanding and address misconceptions. Overall, Ingoldsby Academy continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its students.
