Robert Barclay Academy, located in Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire, underwent an inspection on March 7 and 8, 2023, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has made significant improvements since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth-form provision were all rated as good.
Pupils express a strong sense of belonging at Robert Barclay Academy, describing it as a family environment. They appreciate the high expectations set by their teachers regarding behavior and learning. The school prioritizes the mental and physical well-being of its students, ensuring they feel safe and supported. Pupils are encouraged to seek help when needed, fostering a culture of care and respect. The behavior of pupils is commendable, with attentive listening and positive interactions both in and out of lessons. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they do occur, teachers address them swiftly. The school promotes respect for diversity and teaches pupils about various world religions, preparing them for life in a multicultural society.
The curriculum at Robert Barclay Academy is well-structured and ambitious, allowing pupils to build on their prior knowledge. Teachers are well-trained and knowledgeable, presenting content clearly and effectively. This approach helps pupils learn quickly and develop confidence in their abilities. The school also provides opportunities for pupils to revisit previously learned material, reinforcing their understanding. Special curriculum days allow for deeper exploration of specific topics, enhancing pupils' comprehension of complex issues.
While the school has made strides in its academic offerings, there are areas for improvement. The number of pupils studying languages at key stage four remains low, which limits their development of essential life skills. Leaders are actively working on strategies to increase language enrollment, aiming to improve the number of pupils achieving the English Baccalaureate. Additionally, participation in extra-curricular activities is low, particularly among pupils with special educational needs and those receiving pupil premium funding. This lack of engagement means that many pupils miss opportunities to develop artistic, musical, and sporting skills.
The sixth form at Robert Barclay Academy offers a diverse range of subjects, equipping students with essential skills such as presentation, debating, and research. This prepares them well for further education and future careers. The school provides high-quality careers guidance, helping pupils gain valuable work experience and increasing the number of students accessing higher education.
Safeguarding measures at the school are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance. Staff are trained to identify signs of abuse or harm, and concerns are reported and addressed promptly. Pupils are educated about online safety and know how to report any issues. The school maintains meticulous safeguarding records and conducts thorough checks on new staff to ensure a safe environment.
In summary, Robert Barclay Academy has made significant progress since its last inspection, achieving a good rating across various aspects of school life. While there are areas that require attention, such as increasing language participation and enhancing extra-curricular engagement, the school is well-equipped to continue its improvement journey. The leadership team is committed to fostering a supportive and enriching environment for all pupils, ensuring they are well-prepared for their futures.
