Cranbrook Education Campus, located in Exeter, Devon, has been evaluated positively in its recent inspection, achieving an overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection took place on May 21 and 22, 2024, and the school has maintained this good rating since its previous inspection in May 2018. The headteacher, Stephen Farmer, leads the school, which is part of the Ted Wragg Multi Academy Trust, overseen by CEO Moira Marder and a board of trustees chaired by Andrew Mulcock.
Pupils at Cranbrook Education Campus report feeling happy and safe, embodying the school’s values known as the PERKS of being Crantastic, which emphasize kindness and safety. The positive atmosphere within the school is attributed to the high expectations set for pupil behavior, resulting in minimal disruption to learning. The school encourages pupil participation through initiatives like the pupil parliament, where students represent their peers and contribute to the school community. Anti-bullying ambassadors have also been appointed to foster a culture of respect and celebrate diversity.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including the mini-Dukes program for primary pupils, which prepares them for secondary school challenges. Opportunities in sports and music are abundant, with teams and events such as the girls' football team and the Crastonbury choir. The school actively works to eliminate barriers to participation, ensuring that all pupils, including those from asylum-seeking families, have access to extracurricular opportunities.
Cranbrook Education Campus provides an ambitious curriculum, particularly in the secondary phase, where many pupils pursue the English Baccalaureate at GCSE. The curriculum is regularly reviewed, and teachers effectively use assessments to identify and address gaps in knowledge. The sequencing of the curriculum is well thought out, especially in early years, where a strong emphasis is placed on developing language and communication skills.
While the school excels in many areas, there are some challenges. In the primary phase, pupils may recall number facts but struggle to apply them in problem-solving contexts due to insufficient subject knowledge among some teachers. Additionally, opportunities for pupils to engage in discussions and debates are limited, which can hinder their ability to consolidate learning and express their views confidently.
The school promotes reading effectively, with older pupils engaging with a carefully curated literary canon that enhances their understanding of diversity. Early reading programs have been strengthened, ensuring that children receive the support they need to develop reading skills.
Cranbrook Education Campus is committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring their needs are accurately identified and met. Most pupils attend regularly, and the school has implemented strategies to improve attendance among those who struggle.
The personal development curriculum is well-designed, covering essential topics such as online safety and mental health. Secondary pupils benefit from a robust careers education program, providing them with valuable encounters with employers and guidance for their future education.
Trustees and local governors effectively hold school leaders accountable for improving educational quality. The school manages staff workload thoughtfully and supports new teachers adequately. Safeguarding measures are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
Overall, Cranbrook Education Campus demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education, fostering a positive school culture, and supporting the diverse needs of its pupils. The school is well-positioned to continue its growth and address areas for improvement, particularly in enhancing subject knowledge among primary teachers and creating more opportunities for pupil discussions.
