Burnside Academy Inspires, located in Houghton le Spring, Tyne and Wear, has been recognized for its effective educational practices and commitment to maintaining high standards since its last inspection. The headteacher, Leona Kelly, leads the school, which is part of the Inspire Multi Academy Trust, overseen by CEO Joanne West and a board of trustees chaired by Stephen Ruffell. The recent inspection on October 22, 2024, reaffirmed the school's good standing in overall effectiveness.
The school is characterized by a strong sense of community, where staff know the pupils well and foster an inclusive environment. The commitment to supporting all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, is evident in the school's approach, ensuring that every pupil has the opportunity to succeed. This inclusive ethos contributes to positive pupil attitudes, with students demonstrating enthusiasm for learning and active participation in class discussions. Social interactions among pupils are marked by cooperation and kindness, particularly in the early years, where children learn essential social skills.
Burnside Academy Inspires places a significant emphasis on personal development, offering various leadership opportunities for pupils. Roles such as school councillors and mental health ambassadors empower students to contribute positively to their community. The school also prioritizes health and well-being, teaching pupils about healthy relationships and safety in both online and offline contexts.
The curriculum at Burnside Academy is ambitious and well-structured, allowing pupils to build knowledge progressively. The focus on early reading and mathematics has yielded positive results, with pupils showing enthusiasm for writing. However, some students face challenges in spelling, punctuation, and grammar, which can hinder their writing quality. Recent initiatives have been introduced to address these issues, but there remains a need for more opportunities for pupils to apply their writing skills across different subjects.
Teachers at the school possess strong subject knowledge and employ effective teaching strategies to deepen pupils' understanding. Activities are designed to reinforce learning, with practical work in subjects like science and geography enhancing students' ability to apply their knowledge. The school effectively identifies the needs of pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they receive the necessary support to thrive academically.
Reading is a priority at Burnside Academy, with well-trained teachers implementing phonics instruction and providing targeted support for pupils who may be falling behind. The school's library is a welcoming space that encourages a love for reading, offering a diverse selection of books for pupils to explore.
Attendance has improved significantly due to the school's focused strategies, with pupils demonstrating positive attitudes towards learning. The school also offers a wide range of physical activities, promoting both physical health and mental well-being. Pupils engage in various sports and outdoor activities, developing resilience and teamwork skills.
Leadership at Burnside Academy is effective, with leaders having a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. Staff morale is high, and there is a collaborative effort within the community to support pupils' best interests. Safeguarding measures are robust, ensuring a safe environment for all students.
While the school has made strides in many areas, there are still opportunities for improvement, particularly in enhancing the writing curriculum and embedding strategies for knowledge retention across the wider curriculum. Overall, Burnside Academy Inspires continues to provide a supportive and effective educational experience for its pupils.
