St James Academy, located in Dudley, West Midlands, has undergone a recent inspection on June 4 and 5, 2024, and has been rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. This marks a significant improvement from its previous inspection, where it was rated as requiring improvement. The principal, Ian Moore, leads the school, which is part of the Dudley Academies Trust, overseen by CEO Jo Higgins and a board of trustees chaired by Lowell Williams.
The school prides itself on being inclusive and welcoming, fostering an environment where pupils are courteous and polite. They are encouraged to demonstrate good manners and are rewarded for their positive behaviour. The school has implemented a specialized programme to support pupils who require assistance with the English language, ensuring that new students feel integrated into the school community. The culture at St James Academy promotes acceptance and discourages prejudice, allowing pupils to express themselves freely in a safe environment.
Classroom behaviour is generally calm and orderly, with pupils aware of how to report concerns. The school has established a strong anti-bullying culture, and pupils express confidence in the staff's ability to address any issues that arise. The careers programme is highlighted as a strength, aligning with the school's ambition of dreaming big, and pupils are well-prepared for life after Year 11. While there are various clubs and activities available, the school recognizes the need to increase participation among pupils.
Since the last inspection, the school has made considerable efforts to enhance the quality of teaching. Lessons now incorporate activities that help pupils revisit and retain prior learning, which has positively impacted their memory and understanding. Teachers are adept at identifying and addressing misconceptions, particularly in subjects like history and mathematics. The curriculum for key stage three has been reviewed and is now broad and balanced, ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, have access to the same educational opportunities.
Reading is prioritized across the school, with effective strategies in place to support pupils who need additional help. The school identifies these pupils upon entry and provides them with a well-structured reading programme. Furthermore, initiatives to promote a love of reading, such as reading for pleasure during form time, are actively encouraged.
The school maintains high expectations for pupil behaviour, and most students adhere to these standards, allowing for a focused learning environment. However, instances of low-level disruption can occur when pupils do not have their usual teacher or when tasks are not suitably adapted to meet their needs. The school is committed to improving attendance, as some pupils do not attend regularly, which affects their learning. Efforts are being made to work with families and external agencies to enhance attendance rates.
Pupils receive valuable guidance when selecting courses for Year 10 and are well-supported in their applications for post-16 education. The leadership team, including those responsible for governance, is knowledgeable about the school and actively involved in its improvement. Staff members feel proud of their contributions to the school's development and appreciate the support they receive regarding their well-being and workload.
While the school has made significant strides, there are areas for further improvement. The school must continue to address attendance issues and ensure that all pupils receive work that is well-matched to their needs to minimize distractions. Additionally, the school aims to enhance engagement in extracurricular activities to ensure that all pupils benefit from the diverse opportunities available. Overall, St James Academy is on a positive trajectory, demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement and the well-being of its pupils.
