Linden Road Academy and Hearing Impaired Base is recognized as a good school, offering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school promotes a culture of respect and understanding, encouraging students to celebrate diverse faiths and cultures. Effective leadership ensures that incidents of poor behavior and bullying are addressed promptly, contributing to a safe and happy atmosphere for students. Pupils are motivated to meet high expectations set by their teachers, actively participating in recognition programs that celebrate positive behavior and achievements. Parents appreciate the school's efforts to involve them in their children's successes through weekly celebration assemblies.
The school council plays a vital role in fostering student engagement, allowing pupils to voice their opinions on school matters, such as spending decisions to enhance the school environment. Older students are encouraged to take on responsibilities, such as class prefects, which helps cultivate a sense of belonging within the school community. The curriculum is broad and ambitious, designed to meet the needs of all pupils, including those in the specially resourced provision for hearing-impaired students. Leaders have carefully structured the curriculum to ensure that essential knowledge is identified and sequenced effectively, enabling teachers to build on prior learning.
Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge, supported by regular training that equips them to deliver the curriculum effectively. However, there are instances where some teachers do not adequately assess pupils' understanding of previous learning, leading to misconceptions that are not addressed in a timely manner. The school has recently refined its phonics curriculum, starting in the Nursery Year, to enhance reading skills. While staff receive training to deliver this curriculum, some pupils in key stage one still experience gaps in their reading knowledge due to past weaknesses in teaching methods.
Leaders ensure that pupils have access to a wide variety of reading materials, and teachers select texts that support learning across the curriculum. The school promotes a positive reading culture, with pupils expressing enjoyment in reading activities. The support systems for pupils with special educational needs are effective, allowing them to participate fully in school life. Classrooms are positive learning environments, with established routines that minimize disruptions. In the early years, staff focus on teaching children about behavior and social skills, fostering supportive relationships that help them settle in quickly.
The school has implemented a comprehensive program to promote personal development, teaching pupils about healthy relationships and the importance of mental and physical well-being. Pupils learn about British values and respect for diversity through the curriculum. Leaders are mindful of staff workload and well-being, providing resources and support to promote a positive working environment. The safeguarding arrangements are robust, with staff trained to identify and report concerns, ensuring that vulnerable pupils receive the necessary support.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some teachers need to enhance their assessment practices to ensure that pupils' understanding of prior learning is secure. Additionally, addressing the gaps in reading knowledge for some key stage one pupils is essential for their development as confident readers. Overall, Linden Road Academy and Hearing Impaired Base continues to provide a supportive and effective educational experience for its pupils, with a commitment to ongoing improvement.
