Hardwicke Parochial Academy, located in Gloucester, has recently undergone an inspection that highlighted its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on June 6 and 7, 2023, and assessed various aspects of the school, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision, all of which were rated as good. The school has not been previously inspected under section five of the Education Act 2005.
Pupils at Hardwicke Parochial Academy report feeling safe and happy, benefiting from an inclusive environment. The leadership has crafted a curriculum that supports all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school promotes a culture of striving for excellence, helping others, inspiring peers, perseverance, and empathy, encapsulated in the acronym SHINE. Pupils are familiar with these values and appreciate the recognition they receive through SHINE awards.
The students are described as friendly and eager to learn, valuing the supportive relationships they have with staff. Most pupils exhibit good behavior, and those in the Reception Year adapt quickly to school routines. The school provides additional support for a minority of pupils who may struggle with behavior management. Pupils express confidence that any incidents of bullying are addressed promptly and effectively by staff.
The school offers a broad curriculum that is well-planned, allowing pupils to build on prior knowledge effectively. For instance, in mathematics, students apply their understanding of times tables to work with fractions. However, some subjects reveal challenges in knowledge retention due to underdeveloped assessment systems. Teachers may not always address learning gaps swiftly enough, which can hinder some pupils' progress.
In early reading, staff are well-trained and follow a phonics program closely, ensuring that pupils receive the necessary support to keep pace with their peers. The school fosters a love for reading, with pupils discussing various genres and demonstrating an impressive vocabulary. The culture of acceptance and belonging is evident, as pupils celebrate diversity and engage in discussions about fairness and respect.
Pupils enjoy a variety of extracurricular activities that help them develop character and responsibility, such as serving as house captains or participating in community fundraising efforts. The school environment encourages positive interactions during playtime, with children learning to take turns and respect one another.
While many parents commend the nurturing atmosphere and passionate staff, some express concerns regarding frequent leadership changes and communication issues, particularly for parents of pupils with special educational needs. The school is committed to ensuring that these students receive a broad and ambitious curriculum, with staff trained to support their needs effectively.
The inspection team noted that trust leaders and governors have acted decisively to stabilize the school amid leadership transitions. They are aware of the strengths and areas for improvement and hold school leaders accountable. Staff report feeling well-supported and proud to work at the academy, contributing to a positive school culture.
The safeguarding arrangements at Hardwicke Parochial Academy are effective, with a strong emphasis on staff training and pupil support. Leaders ensure that all staff are suitable to work with children and that safeguarding is a shared responsibility. Pupils demonstrate a solid understanding of safety, including online safety, and feel comfortable discussing their concerns with staff.
To improve further, the school needs to enhance its assessment processes to better identify and address gaps in pupils' knowledge. Additionally, improving communication with parents, especially those of children with special educational needs, is essential to ensure they are well-informed about their child's education. Overall, Hardwicke Parochial Academy is a supportive and effective learning environment for its pupils.
