Following the inspection of Joseph Norton Academy on April 9, 2019, it has been determined that the school continues to maintain a good standard of education. The leadership team has effectively upheld the quality of education since the last inspection, demonstrating a commitment to improvement in various areas, including safeguarding, behavior management, and curriculum development. The headteacher and senior leaders are dedicated to addressing the needs of pupils with social, emotional, and mental health challenges, fostering a clear vision that is well understood by the staff. This collaborative effort, supported by the governing body and the multi-academy trust, positions the school for ongoing progress and improvement.
The school’s self-evaluation and improvement plans are well-defined and appropriate. Notably, a strategy implemented to enhance attendance has yielded positive results, aligning overall attendance with national averages. The curriculum has been revised to emphasize reading and writing, addressing previous gaps in writing skill development. This new curriculum is tailored to meet the individual needs of pupils, enabling them to engage effectively in their learning. Consequently, most pupils are making significant progress, particularly in English.
Behavior management systems are in place and generally effective, with detailed documentation of incidents allowing for targeted action plans for individual pupils. However, there are instances where the management of inappropriate language among pupils could be improved. While many pupils demonstrate respect and positive behavior, some classrooms exhibit variability in behavior, with occasional derogatory language being used.
Pupils are provided with diverse opportunities to prepare for life beyond school, including vocational subjects that facilitate work experience and further education pathways. The school has a robust system for tracking pupils' progress, particularly for those transitioning to mainstream colleges, ensuring continued support for those facing challenges in further education.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with a knowledgeable leadership team ensuring that all arrangements are suitable. Staff receive comprehensive training on various safeguarding issues, equipping them to recognize and respond to potential risks. Parents and staff express confidence in the safety of pupils within the school environment.
During the inspection, it was noted that the quality of teaching remains good, with effective planning of learning tasks that cater to individual pupil needs. Pupils are making commendable progress, especially in English, with high-quality work evident in their exercise books. However, there is a need for further clarity in science topics, as some pupils struggle to articulate their learning objectives.
Reading is a fundamental aspect of the school culture, with pupils encouraged to engage with a variety of reading materials. The integration of real-life learning experiences, such as hospitality lessons, enhances pupils' practical skills and fosters a sense of pride in their contributions.
While the school has made significant strides, there are areas for continued development. Leaders are encouraged to enhance efforts in addressing inappropriate language among pupils and to ensure that all staff can articulate and utilize progress information effectively to inform teaching practices. Overall, Joseph Norton Academy demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a supportive and effective educational environment for its pupils.