Knowle DGE Academy, located in Bristol, has undergone a recent inspection that evaluated its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on June 11 and 12, 2024, and marked a significant improvement from its previous grade of requires improvement. The headteacher, Kate Lee-Wells, leads the school, which is part of the Midsomer Norton Learning Partnership, overseen by CEO Alun Williams and a board of trustees chaired by Tony Wells.
The school provides a safe and nurturing environment where pupils feel well cared for and typically enjoy attending. Strong relationships between staff and pupils contribute to a positive atmosphere, and effective techniques are employed to help pupils who may struggle with anxiety or self-control. Social activities are carefully planned to foster independence and social skills, with popular options like the Lego club and various small group games during breaks. The curriculum is designed to broaden pupils' experiences, offering activities such as paddle boarding, theatre visits, and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. Pupils are encouraged to explore their interests in areas like art, music production, and animal care, while also learning practical skills such as money management and cooking.
The school has made commendable strides in improving the quality of education, with pupils expressing positive sentiments about their learning experiences. The curriculum is ambitious, particularly in core subjects like English, mathematics, and science, where staff utilize their subject knowledge effectively. The school supports new teachers well and is actively growing its governing body. The approach to teaching phonics is prioritized, ensuring that all pupils become confident readers through regular practice and exposure to high-quality texts.
However, there are areas for improvement. The school is refining its assessment methods to better understand what pupils know and remember, particularly in relation to their education, health, and care plans. Some targets set for pupils are currently too broad, which can hinder effective teaching and learning. Additionally, the bespoke curriculum for pupils who struggle to attend classes is still in its early stages, and the school needs to establish clearer oversight to assess its impact effectively.
The personal, social, health, and economic curriculum is robust, emphasizing mental well-being and teaching about protected characteristics. Pupils receive guidance on their next educational steps, and work experience opportunities enhance their understanding of the workplace. Attendance has improved significantly due to stringent systems in place to address previous issues, leading to a steady decrease in persistent absence rates.
The safeguarding arrangements at Knowle DGE Academy are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and supported. The school is committed to continuous improvement, focusing on refining assessment practices and enhancing the bespoke curriculum for vulnerable pupils. Overall, the school demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a quality education and supporting the diverse needs of its pupils, preparing them well for their future educational and employment opportunities.
