Spring Brook Academy, a special academy located in Failsworth, has recently undergone an inspection that highlights its significant progress and commitment to providing a nurturing educational environment. The school, catering for pupils aged 4 to 16, has received a commendable rating of Good across all key areas, including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management.
Pupils at Spring Brook Academy express a genuine enjoyment of their school experience. The leadership team and staff have cultivated a warm and supportive atmosphere where students feel safe and eager to learn. This positive environment is particularly beneficial for those who have faced challenges in their previous educational settings. The school effectively manages the transition of these pupils, allowing them to experience success in their learning journey.
The leadership team maintains high expectations for both academic achievement and behaviour. Staff are attuned to the individual learning and developmental needs of each pupil, reflected in the well-designed curriculum that promotes strong academic performance. The school's approach ensures that pupils not only follow school rules but also engage in lessons with a calm and purposeful attitude.
Spring Brook Academy offers a unique 48-week enrichment program that allows pupils to continue their education and participate in various activities during school holidays. This includes exciting residential trips to theme parks and outdoor adventure parks, where students can engage in activities like kayaking. Such experiences contribute to the holistic development of pupils, fostering both academic and personal growth.
The school has made significant strides in curriculum development, ensuring it is ambitious and tailored to meet the needs of all pupils. While many subjects have established curriculums that effectively build knowledge and skills over time, there are a few areas where teachers require additional training to deliver the new curriculums confidently. Addressing this will enhance the learning experience and ensure that all pupils gain a comprehensive understanding of the subjects.
Reading is a central focus at Spring Brook Academy, with leaders emphasizing the importance of developing confident and fluent readers. Pupils engage in regular reading activities, and staff read aloud to them daily. The school has implemented an appropriate phonics program, ensuring that pupils receive consistent training and support in their reading development.
The safeguarding arrangements at Spring Brook Academy are robust and effective. Leaders prioritize the safety and well-being of pupils, ensuring that staff are well-trained to identify and address any risks. The school fosters a culture of safeguarding, where pupils are educated on how to keep themselves safe, including online safety.
While Spring Brook Academy has made commendable progress, there are areas for improvement. The school leadership is focused on providing additional training for teachers in specific subjects to ensure consistent delivery of the curriculum. This will further enhance the depth and richness of subject knowledge that pupils acquire.
In conclusion, Spring Brook Academy stands as a testament to the power of effective leadership and a supportive learning environment. With its commitment to high standards, a well-rounded curriculum, and a focus on pupil well-being, the school is well-positioned to continue its trajectory of improvement and success. As it moves forward, the dedication to fostering a positive educational experience for all pupils remains at the forefront of its mission.
