Q3 Academy Langley, located in Oldbury, West Midlands, has been evaluated as a good school following its inspection in May 2019. The leadership and management of the school are rated as outstanding, reflecting the clear and ambitious vision set by the headteacher and senior leaders. Since its establishment, the school has fostered a harmonious and caring community, earning positive feedback from parents and carers. The staff are dedicated and talented, striving to help all pupils reach their potential, supported effectively by the trust and its officers.
Pupils exhibit exemplary behavior, with well-established routines ensuring a respectful and orderly environment. Attendance rates are exceptionally high, and students engage enthusiastically in their education. The school prioritizes the safety and well-being of its pupils, with staff providing high levels of care and support. Personal development is systematically nurtured, leading to positive attitudes towards learning.
The curriculum is generally sound, although some teaching aspects are temporarily limited due to ongoing building works and a lack of specialist resources. The quality of teaching is predominantly good, with outstanding practices evident in subjects like history and modern languages. However, there are instances where pupils struggle to fully grasp the material, impacting their ability to apply knowledge in different contexts. While most pupils perform well, a few do not meet the expected standards in internal assessments, particularly in writing, where spelling, punctuation, and grammar need improvement.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive strong support, and disadvantaged pupils achieve comparably to their peers. The governing body is effective, utilizing its experience to hold leaders accountable and ensuring robust safeguarding practices are in place.
To further enhance the school, it is recommended that leaders focus on improving pupils' understanding of the material taught, enabling them to apply knowledge more accurately. Additionally, strengthening the quality of written work by addressing spelling, punctuation, and grammar is essential.
The inspection highlighted the outstanding personal development and welfare initiatives in place. Pupils are engaged in a comprehensive program that promotes honesty, good manners, and self-confidence. Daily routines, such as shared meals and effective tutor time, contribute to a strong sense of community and well-being. Assemblies are inspirational, encouraging reflection and discussion on various topics.
Pupils' behavior is consistently outstanding, characterized by courtesy and politeness. The school's behavior management strategies are well-implemented, and staff maintain high expectations. Attendance is excellent, reflecting pupils' enjoyment of school and eagerness to learn.
While the school has not yet had pupils sit for GCSE examinations, current Year 9 students are preparing for their assessments. The school provides relevant and challenging subject matter, with most pupils making good progress in acquiring knowledge and skills. However, lower-attaining pupils face challenges in achieving their potential, particularly in subjects like science and mathematics, where they may not have fully mastered earlier concepts before moving on to more difficult topics.
Overall, Q3 Academy Langley demonstrates a commitment to high standards in education, personal development, and pupil welfare. The school is well-positioned to address the areas for improvement identified in the inspection, ensuring that all pupils can thrive academically and personally.
