South Witham Academy, located on Water Lane in Grantham, Lincolnshire, has achieved an overall effectiveness rating of 'Good' in its latest Ofsted inspection conducted on November 1 and 2, 2023. This marks a significant improvement from its previous inspection in October 2019, where the school was rated as 'Requires Improvement'.
Under the leadership of Headteacher Andrew Atter, and as part of the Brooke Hill Academy Trust, South Witham Academy has fostered a positive and nurturing environment for its pupils. The inspection report highlights that students are happy, feel safe, and enjoy their learning experiences. The school offers an ambitious curriculum that engages pupils from the early years through to key stage 2.
The report notes that relationships between pupils and staff are strong, with a culture that encourages students to aim high in both their academic pursuits and personal development. Pupils are actively involved in their learning, as evidenced by their enthusiasm for projects such as creating pumpkin collages in nursery and discussing historical figures like Christopher Columbus in key stage 1.
The school has implemented an extensive program of visitors, including professionals from various fields, to inspire students and broaden their horizons. Additionally, the school is committed to inclusivity, ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are fully integrated into all aspects of school life.
Behaviour at South Witham Academy is generally good, with pupils enjoying their time during breaks and engaging positively with one another. Parents have expressed confidence in the school's ability to address any instances of bullying promptly and effectively.
The inspection highlighted the school's well-structured curriculum, which is designed to be clear and sequenced across all subjects. Pupils reported high levels of engagement, particularly in mathematics, history, and physical education. The early years curriculum is noted for its effectiveness in building foundational knowledge, preparing children for their future learning.
However, the report also identified areas for improvement. While the school has made strides in assessing learning in core subjects like English and mathematics, there is a need for more effective methods to evaluate pupil progress in foundation subjects. Additionally, some inconsistencies in behaviour management were noted, suggesting that all staff should maintain high expectations for pupil behaviour.
The safeguarding arrangements at South Witham Academy are deemed effective, ensuring that pupils' welfare is a top priority. The school has established a positive culture around safeguarding, which is crucial for creating a safe learning environment.
To continue its trajectory of improvement, the school is encouraged to develop robust assessment strategies for all subjects and ensure consistent application of behaviour policies across the board. The leadership team, supported by the Brooke Hill Academy Trust, is committed to addressing these areas to enhance the educational experience for all pupils.
In conclusion, South Witham Academy's recent inspection results reflect a school that is dedicated to providing a high-quality education in a supportive and engaging environment. With ongoing efforts to refine its practices, the school is well-positioned to build on its successes and further improve outcomes for its students.
