Emneth Academy, located in Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, has recently undergone an inspection on February 7 and 8, 2024, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has shown significant improvement since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The principal, Elaine Huntington, leads the school, which is part of the Eastern Multi Academy Trust, overseen by CEO Paul Shanks and chaired by Julie Perry.
Pupils at Emneth Academy report high levels of happiness and safety within the school environment. Staff members are well-acquainted with the students, fostering a supportive atmosphere where older pupils assist younger ones in resolving conflicts and engaging in play. This mentorship contributes to a sense of security among students, who feel confident that adults will address their concerns. The school emphasizes high expectations for behavior, which pupils respond to positively. Recent changes to the reward system have motivated students to improve their conduct, leading to a calmer and more purposeful learning environment. Respect for diversity is actively promoted, with pupils discussing disabilities and various lifestyles in a positive light.
The curriculum at Emneth Academy is well-structured and designed to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The early years provision is particularly effective, with children learning phonics from the start, which aids their reading and writing skills as they progress. Staff are trained to identify pupils needing additional support, ensuring timely interventions. The curriculum encourages pupils to make connections across subjects, enhancing their overall learning experience.
Pupils engage in a variety of enriching activities, such as creating decorations from recycled materials and participating in visits from educational organizations like planetariums. The school also promotes environmental awareness through initiatives like the eco-council, which has earned the Ocean-Friendly Schools Award. This involvement teaches pupils about the impact of waste on the environment and encourages responsible behavior regarding litter.
Despite the school's strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some pupils have not fully benefited from the new curriculum, resulting in gaps in their knowledge. The school is committed to addressing these gaps and ensuring that all pupils progress effectively. Additionally, attendance remains a challenge for some students, which affects their ability to engage with the curriculum fully. The school is implementing new strategies to improve attendance among these pupils and their families.
The leadership team at Emneth Academy is dedicated to creating a school environment that is too good to miss. They are actively working on initiatives to encourage regular attendance and have increased support for families facing challenges. The trust collaborates with the school to provide stimulating learning experiences, fostering respect and responsibility among pupils through various leadership opportunities.
Overall, Emneth Academy has made commendable progress in enhancing its educational offerings and creating a supportive environment for its pupils. The commitment to continuous improvement, alongside effective leadership and a well-designed curriculum, positions the school as a positive place for learning and development. The recent inspection highlights the school's achievements while also recognizing the need for ongoing efforts to address attendance and knowledge gaps among some students.
