Bournemouth Park Academy is a large and vibrant primary school located in Southend-on-Sea, Essex. The school has been recognized as a good institution, providing a supportive and engaging environment for its pupils. During the inspection conducted on September 24-25, 2019, it was noted that the school fosters a harmonious atmosphere where students get along well with their peers and staff. Pupils feel comfortable discussing any concerns with adults, who are committed to their welfare and safety. The school promotes a simple set of rules that emphasizes being ready, safe, and respectful, which all students are expected to follow.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities that enrich the students' experiences. For instance, Year 6 pupils participate in outdoor activities at an outward bound center, while others have the opportunity to perform at prestigious venues like the O2 Arena. The curriculum is designed to be engaging and fun, which helps to instill a love for learning among the students. The staff are dedicated to making lessons interesting, resulting in pupils who are eager to learn and explore new subjects.
Bournemouth Park Academy has made significant strides in improving its curriculum. Leaders and staff have carefully considered what pupils need to learn and how to structure their education effectively. This thoughtful approach ensures that students build their knowledge progressively. Reading is prioritized, with staff demonstrating strong phonics teaching skills. By the end of Year 2, most pupils are developing into confident readers. However, there have been challenges in the teaching of reading in Key Stage 2, although recent changes have led to improvements.
Despite the positive aspects, the school faces some challenges. The stock of reading books is limited, which can hinder pupils' progress as they may not have access to appropriate materials. Some students end up with books that are either too difficult or unsuitable for their reading level. Additionally, while most pupils exhibit good behavior, a few struggle to adhere to the school's expectations. These students receive support to help them improve their behavior, ensuring that learning is not disrupted.
The provision for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities has been identified as an area needing improvement. Although there have been weaknesses in leadership regarding this aspect, recent efforts have been made to enhance the support provided to these pupils. Leaders are now focusing on better monitoring and planning to meet the individual needs of students with SEND.
The school is committed to providing enriching experiences for its pupils, including trips to London and lessons on cultural diversity and civic responsibilities. Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential concerns regarding pupil welfare. The school prioritizes the safety and well-being of its students, ensuring that all adults understand their role in maintaining a secure environment.
In summary, Bournemouth Park Academy is a good school that offers a supportive and engaging learning environment. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in reading resources and support for pupils with SEND, the school demonstrates a commitment to enhancing the educational experience for all its students. The leadership team is actively working to address these challenges, ensuring that the school continues to provide a high-quality education.
