Glascote Academy, located in Tamworth, Staffordshire, has undergone an ungraded inspection on 10 and 11 October 2023, maintaining its overall judgment of outstanding. However, the evidence suggests that if a graded inspection were conducted now, the results might not reflect the same high standards. The headteacher, Michelle Powell, leads the school, which is part of the Fierté Multi-Academy Trust, overseen by CEO Maria Hamblin and a board of trustees chaired by Zoe Insley.
Since the last inspection in September 2017, there has been a decline in the standards achieved by pupils. Senior leaders and trust leaders are actively working to reverse this trend, implementing significant changes that are beginning to improve educational outcomes. The newly introduced curriculum is broad and balanced, offering pupils a wide range of subjects and learning opportunities. The school fosters a strong sense of community, with staff and pupils referring to themselves as the Glascote Family. Positive relationships are prevalent, and staff collaborate effectively to support pupils, including those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs and disabilities.
Pupils exhibit a welcoming and friendly demeanor, demonstrating a desire to learn and a commitment to their education. They behave well, contributing to a calm and orderly school environment. Pupils feel confident that their teachers will address any issues promptly and effectively. A notable strength of the school is its commitment to enhancing pupils' personal development. The school offers a variety of activities, including access to its own farm, outdoor learning areas, trips, and clubs, which pupils greatly value.
Despite the school's strengths, there are areas for improvement. The decline in standards since the previous inspection has prompted the school and trust to recognize the need for change. Expectations have been raised, and a new curriculum has been introduced alongside an updated behavior policy. While standards are on the rise, the new curriculum is still in the early stages of implementation, meaning it has not yet had a significant impact on pupil achievement. In some foundation subjects, the curriculum is not as well developed, leading to gaps in knowledge and learning for older pupils.
Teachers generally provide work that matches pupils' needs and abilities, including those with special educational needs. However, some support staff lack the necessary expertise, which can hinder the support provided to pupils. Additionally, not all teachers adapt their teaching effectively to meet the needs of pupils requiring extra help, resulting in some pupils moving on to new content before they are ready.
Reading has been prioritized, and pupils enjoy their daily reading sessions. The teaching of the new phonics scheme is effective, helping pupils improve their reading fluency. The school has high expectations for behavior and attendance, with pupils generally behaving well and enjoying their time at school.
In the early years, children settle in well, with staff ensuring they become accustomed to daily routines. The school promotes personal development effectively, teaching pupils about responsibility and safety, including online safety. The trust has a clear understanding of the school's strengths and weaknesses, with robust systems in place for evaluating performance. Staff express pride in their work and appreciate the support from senior leaders regarding their workload and well-being.
The safeguarding arrangements at Glascote Academy are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Moving forward, the school must focus on clearly identifying the knowledge and skills expected in foundation subjects and ensuring all staff have the expertise needed to support pupils effectively. Addressing these areas will be crucial for the school to continue its journey of improvement and maintain its outstanding status.
