The Sir John Colfox Academy, located in Bridport, Dorset, has been inspected and continues to be recognized as a good school. Under the leadership of headteacher Adam Shelley, the school is part of the Initio Learning Trust, which oversees its operations through CEO Elizabeth West and a board of trustees led by John Kingston. Pupils at the academy appreciate the strong relationships they have with staff, which fosters a safe environment where they feel secure and confident that any incidents of bullying will be addressed effectively. The school offers a wide range of extra-curricular activities, with house events and competitions being particularly popular, encouraging all students to participate and try new experiences.
The curriculum at Sir John Colfox Academy is well-structured, ensuring that learning extends beyond mere exam preparation. Recent updates to the curriculum reflect the school's ambition for students to achieve higher standards. Pupils are exposed to diverse cultures and global perspectives, and they express enthusiasm for reading, often discussing books they enjoy. Most students exhibit commendable behavior, being polite and attentive, although a small number do not consistently meet the school's expectations. The school is actively working to ensure that all students can learn in a calm and orderly environment, and pupils feel confident that any disruptive behavior is managed appropriately.
The school excels in providing a thoughtfully sequenced curriculum across most subjects, allowing students to build on prior knowledge and make connections in their learning. Teachers effectively break down complex information into manageable steps, facilitating learning for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. While the recent curriculum developments have not yet fully reflected in published outcomes, current students are benefiting from these improvements. The school has high expectations for its pupils, with nearly all expected to learn a modern foreign language in key stage four and most studying English Baccalaureate subjects.
However, there are areas for improvement. Some staff do not consistently maintain high expectations for student learning and attitudes, which is evident in the quality of work produced, including in the sixth form. The school has prioritized reading, with independent reading integrated into the tutor program, and additional reading time valued by students in key stage three. Support is provided for those at early stages of reading to help them catch up.
The school effectively identifies and supports pupils with special educational needs, and many parents express satisfaction with the assistance provided. Recent changes to the behavior policy have been implemented in response to challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, enhancing pastoral care and supporting teachers in managing behavior. While the new policy has positively impacted most students, its application is not yet consistent across all staff, leading to occasional disruptions in learning.
The school offers numerous opportunities for students to engage beyond the classroom, with strong community links and a commitment to teaching about diverse cultures. The careers program prepares students well for future opportunities, ensuring they are informed about various pathways available to them. Leaders engage positively with staff, and the transition to the new trust has been smooth, with effective support aimed at improving outcomes for pupils.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all students. To enhance the learning experience, the school must ensure consistent implementation of the behavior policy and clarify expectations for staff regarding student standards. Overall, the Sir John Colfox Academy demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
