Kingsland CofE Academy, located in Stoke-on-Trent, underwent its first routine inspection since the COVID-19 pandemic in February 2022. The school received an overall effectiveness rating of good across all evaluated areas, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The inspection highlighted the school's strong Christian ethos, which fosters a safe and caring environment for pupils. Students reported feeling supported by staff, particularly the school chaplain, and expressed confidence in the adults' ability to address bullying effectively.
Pupils generally exhibit good behavior during lessons, although there are occasional disruptions. Teachers are proactive in managing these instances, ensuring that learning remains a priority. The school emphasizes high expectations for attendance and effort, which most pupils meet. The school community is characterized by strong engagement with families, with parents appreciating the variety of courses offered to support their children's learning. However, some parents expressed concerns regarding communication about their children's progress.
Leaders have effectively navigated the challenges posed by the pandemic, recognizing its impact on pupil progress. They have identified gaps in learning and adapted the curriculum accordingly, although some changes are still new and not consistently implemented across the school. The effectiveness of these adaptations has yet to be fully evaluated. Reading is prioritized, with a well-implemented phonics program that helps children develop their reading skills through carefully selected books. Mathematics instruction is also strong, with a well-sequenced curriculum that allows pupils to build on their knowledge over time.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive effective support, contributing to their good achievement. However, there are instances where interventions do not adequately address key gaps in knowledge, hindering some pupils' ability to catch up quickly. Early years provision is robust, with activities designed to enhance vocabulary and social skills. Children benefit from a variety of experiences that cater to their developmental needs.
The school encourages pupils to engage with the wider community through various initiatives, such as fundraising and leadership roles. This involvement helps foster resilience and self-confidence among students. Attendance has improved due to the school's efforts to work closely with families, emphasizing the importance of regular attendance.
Governance is strong, with trustees and governors providing a balanced mix of support and challenge to school leaders. The trust ensures that leaders receive necessary support while monitoring staff wellbeing and workload. Staff appreciate the consideration given to their workload in decision-making processes.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to identify signs of neglect and exploitation. The school collaborates with local authorities to support vulnerable pupils and educates students about safety issues, including internet safety and the dangers of gang culture.
To improve further, leaders need to evaluate the impact of recent curriculum changes to ensure they effectively support pupil learning. Additionally, there is a need for consistent use of assessment to help all pupils, including those with special educational needs, catch up on missed learning and address misunderstandings. Overall, Kingsland CofE Academy demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and effective educational environment for its pupils.
