Fairford Academy Barnehurst has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 28 and March 1, 2023. The leadership team demonstrates a strong commitment to the academic and personal development of its pupils, ensuring a broad curriculum that aligns with the school’s motto of ‘happy and bright.’ Pupils express enjoyment in attending school and actively support one another in their learning endeavors. The school fosters a safe and nurturing environment, with leaders maintaining high expectations for behavior. A new policy has been implemented to encourage pupils to take responsibility for their actions, and the response has been largely positive. Instances of bullying are infrequent, and when they occur, they are addressed promptly by the leadership team.
The school places significant emphasis on providing a well-rounded educational experience. Pupils participate in various extracurricular activities, including school trips and clubs, which are documented in a ‘pupil journal’ to encourage engagement and broaden their experiences. Opportunities for pupils to take on responsibilities are abundant, with roles such as mathematics ambassadors and class helpers contributing to the school community. In the early years, children engage in diverse activities that promote collaboration and adherence to routines.
Reading is a priority at Fairford Academy, with a newly introduced phonics program that is well-supported by staff training. Pupils begin phonics instruction in Reception, with a structured approach to ensure they acquire the necessary skills by the end of each term. Books are carefully selected to match the phonics sounds learned, and pupils are encouraged to read at home to enhance their fluency. Regular assessments help identify pupils who require additional support, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance.
The curriculum is ambitious and inclusive, catering for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Each subject has a clearly defined learning objective, and lessons are sequenced to build knowledge progressively. For instance, in mathematics, pupils learn about pictograms before advancing to bar charts. The school organizes visits that complement the curriculum, such as trips to the Science Museum and historical sites.
Teachers exhibit strong subject knowledge and effectively communicate concepts to pupils. They emphasize the use of subject-specific vocabulary and regularly revisit previous topics to reinforce learning. Teachers are attentive to pupils’ understanding and provide timely support when needed, including targeted sessions for challenging concepts.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. A small number of pupils exhibit behavioral challenges that can disrupt learning, necessitating more effective support strategies. Additionally, the implementation of the new curriculum is not yet fully realized in some subjects, limiting the depth of learning in those areas.
The school has established a robust safeguarding culture, with staff trained to recognize and report concerns. Pupils feel confident in voicing their worries, knowing that their concerns will be taken seriously. Leaders conduct thorough checks on the suitability of staff working at the school.
Overall, Fairford Academy Barnehurst continues to provide a quality education, with a strong focus on pupil well-being and academic achievement. The leadership team is committed to addressing areas for improvement to ensure that all pupils receive the best possible educational experience. The school actively engages with parents and the community, fostering a collaborative approach to education.
