Walsgrave Church of England Academy, located in Coventry, West Midlands, was inspected by Ofsted on January 25 and 26, 2023. The school has been rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. This inspection marked the first routine evaluation since the school became an academy, as it was previously exempt from routine inspections until November 2020.
The school is characterized by a warm and welcoming environment where pupils thrive within a strong sense of community and inclusivity. The leadership's vision, encapsulated in the phrase Together we thrive, is reflected in the high expectations set for both staff and students, fostering positive relationships throughout the school. Pupils exhibit excellent behaviour, actively engaging in lessons and social interactions, and they are noted for their politeness and good manners, especially towards visitors. The school prioritizes pastoral care, ensuring that students feel safe and secure, with rare instances of bullying being addressed promptly by the leadership.
Walsgrave Academy offers a broad curriculum designed to help pupils build knowledge and understanding over time. Leaders have carefully structured the curriculum to ensure that pupils can connect their learning across different subjects. The emphasis on reading is particularly strong, with a phonics program that begins in Nursery and continues through Reception. However, the inspection noted that the assessment of phonics knowledge in Reception could be improved to better support children who may be falling behind.
Teachers demonstrate effective subject knowledge, particularly in mathematics, where consistent routines and resources help pupils grasp key concepts. While the implementation of the curriculum varies across subjects, leaders are aware of these differences and are working to ensure that all subjects are taught effectively. Assessment practices in the wider curriculum are still developing, and there is a need for more consistent use of assessment information to address knowledge gaps.
The school provides numerous opportunities for personal development, with a variety of extracurricular activities available, including sports, dance, and choir. The personal, social, and health education curriculum is well-structured, helping pupils understand health, safety, and relationships in an age-appropriate manner. Pupils engage with the local community through various initiatives, enhancing their understanding of fundamental British values.
Governance at Walsgrave Academy is strong, with committed governors who provide effective support and challenge to school leaders. The trust leaders have a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement, and staff express high levels of satisfaction and pride in their work at the school.
Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with thorough checks on staff and clear protocols for reporting concerns. Staff receive regular training, ensuring they are knowledgeable about local issues and safeguarding practices. The school’s PSHE curriculum also contributes to pupils' understanding of safety and well-being.
To improve further, the school needs to enhance the frequency of phonics assessments to identify and support children who may be lagging in their reading development. Additionally, refining the use of assessment in the wider curriculum will help teachers better address gaps in knowledge as they arise. Overall, Walsgrave Church of England Academy is a good school with a strong foundation for continued growth and improvement.
