Monks Coppenhall Academy, located in Crewe, Cheshire, underwent its first inspection by Ofsted in November 2023 since becoming an academy in 2016. The school received an overall effectiveness rating of good, with specific areas such as behavior and attitudes, and personal development rated as outstanding. The principal, Carl Leech, leads the school, which is part of the Alexandra Academy Trust, overseen by CEO Pamela Simpson and a board of trustees chaired by Alan Guildford. The school serves a diverse student body, welcoming pupils from various backgrounds and countries, fostering a sense of community where differences are celebrated.
Pupils at Monks Coppenhall Academy exhibit pride in their school and demonstrate kindness towards one another. The nurturing relationships between staff and students contribute to a positive atmosphere where pupils feel safe and happy. The school maintains high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. As a result, pupils show positive attitudes towards learning and achieve well, particularly in English and mathematics. The exemplary behavior of students across all age groups is noted, with polite and respectful interactions observed throughout the school day.
The school emphasizes the importance of reading, implementing a phonics program from the early years. Staff are trained to deliver this program effectively, ensuring that pupils develop a love for reading and become fluent readers by the time they reach key stage two. The curriculum is ambitious, with most subjects well-established and taught effectively. Teachers assess pupils' understanding before introducing new concepts, allowing for a solid foundation of knowledge. However, the school acknowledges that some subjects require further refinement to address gaps in pupils' knowledge due to previous curriculum weaknesses.
Monks Coppenhall Academy has a well-structured approach to supporting pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they learn alongside their peers. The specially resourced provision for these pupils is designed to meet individual targets through a carefully broken-down curriculum. The school community takes collective responsibility for maintaining high behavioral standards, which contributes to a respectful and engaged learning environment. Pupils enjoy a variety of extracurricular activities, including clubs and residential trips, which enhance their educational experience and prepare them for life in modern Britain.
The school has established a comprehensive program for personal development, equipping pupils with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive as responsible citizens. They learn about different cultures and traditions, fostering curiosity and respect for diversity. The curriculum is enriched with trips and visitors that broaden pupils' horizons and aspirations. Parents and carers express high regard for the school, noting the positive impact of staff on their children's development.
While the school has many strengths, it recognizes the need to address gaps in learning in certain subjects and ensure that all teachers are equipped to help pupils retain knowledge over time. The governing board and trustees are committed to supporting the school in its continuous improvement efforts. Overall, Monks Coppenhall Academy provides a supportive and effective educational environment, preparing pupils well for their future endeavors.
