Maltby Lilly Hall Academy, located in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on 28 and 29 September 2021. The school has made significant improvements since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. Pupils at the academy express happiness and satisfaction with their school experience, highlighting a calm and supportive environment that fosters respect among students and staff. The high expectations set by school leaders contribute to a positive atmosphere where pupils are encouraged to focus on their learning while supporting one another.
The quality of education at Maltby Lilly Hall Academy is deemed good, with a well-structured and ambitious curriculum designed to build on pupils' prior knowledge. Teachers are effectively supported in leading their subjects, and there is a strong emphasis on reading, which is prioritized across the school. Pupils demonstrate confidence in their learning, particularly in subjects like science, where they articulate their understanding and use appropriate vocabulary. However, some newly redesigned curriculum plans, such as those for art, are still in the early stages of implementation, and further staff training is being developed to enhance teacher confidence and ambition.
Pupils are provided with numerous opportunities to engage with their local community, including school trips to various cultural and historical sites. The school collaborates with a local secondary academy to enhance pupils' physical education and extracurricular activities. The academy also places importance on personal development, teaching pupils about safety, including internet safety and awareness of issues like stranger danger. Instances of bullying are reported to be rare, and pupils feel confident in the school's ability to address any concerns.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement, particularly regarding the support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The leadership in this area has experienced instability, leading to inconsistencies in support for these pupils. Although most pupils receive effective assistance from well-trained staff, some individual plans do not fully align with their needs. The newly appointed special educational needs coordinator has a clear vision for improvement, which is essential for ensuring that all pupils with SEND receive the support they require.
The early years provision is also rated as good, with a leader who has a solid understanding of the new learning requirements. Staff are well-trained, but some reception-aged children have gaps in their foundational knowledge due to the impact of recent lockdowns. The early years leader is actively working to identify and address these gaps to ensure that all children develop their skills and knowledge effectively.
Overall, Maltby Lilly Hall Academy demonstrates a commitment to providing a positive educational experience for its pupils. The leadership team, including governors, is ambitious and works collaboratively to enhance the school's performance. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a dedicated team ensuring that pupils' safety and well-being are prioritized. The school is well-positioned to continue its journey of improvement, focusing on addressing the identified areas for development while maintaining its strengths in delivering quality education and fostering a supportive community.
