Widnes Academy, located in Widnes, Cheshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 21 and 22, 2023. The school fosters a strong sense of community, with pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, expressing enjoyment in their attendance. Parents and carers appreciate the approachable nature of the staff, who greet students warmly each morning, contributing to a positive and secure environment. The pupils demonstrate good relationships with one another, playing happily during social times and understanding the importance of respect for all individuals, regardless of differences.
The staff at Widnes Academy are described as kind and caring, with pupils feeling confident that their concerns will be addressed. The leadership team takes decisive action to tackle any bullying issues, ensuring that students feel safe. Pupils are aware that the leaders have high expectations for their performance, and they generally exhibit good behavior and a strong work ethic in lessons. The school offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including circus skills, choir, and dodgeball clubs, which many pupils participate in. Regular residential trips from Year 2 help students develop independence, and they are eager to take on responsibilities such as being anti-bullying ambassadors and school councillors.
The curriculum at Widnes Academy is broad, ambitious, and engaging for all pupils, including those with SEND. Leaders have carefully identified the essential content for each subject from early years to Year 6, ensuring that knowledge is taught in a logical order. However, in a few subjects, the clarity regarding essential knowledge and its timing is less defined, which can hinder effective assessment of pupils' understanding. Subject leaders provide strong support to teachers, who generally use their subject knowledge effectively to explain new concepts and check for understanding.
Reading is a priority at Widnes Academy, with children starting phonics training in reception. Staff are well-trained in delivering a structured phonics program, which has resulted in nearly all pupils reading fluently by the end of Year 2. Older pupils benefit from a well-planned reading curriculum that enhances their comprehension skills through a variety of texts. The early years staff focus on developing children's spoken language and vocabulary, fostering social skills and independence.
The school environment is calm and supportive, with pupils showing respect in their interactions. While most students maintain positive attitudes towards learning, some occasionally lose focus, leading to minor disruptions. Leaders provide opportunities for pupils to broaden their horizons through community engagement and learning about diverse backgrounds and faiths, preparing them for life in modern Britain.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff receiving regular training to identify and address risks. Leaders engage with local agencies to support vulnerable pupils and their families. Pupils are educated on safety, including online safety and community issues, through workshops.
To improve, the school needs to clarify essential knowledge in a few subjects and ensure that teachers select the most effective teaching methods. Additionally, consistency in behavior management among staff should be reinforced to minimize disruptions to learning. Overall, Widnes Academy continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
