Duke’s Aldridge Academy, located in Tottenham, London, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection from November 5 to 6, 2019. The school fosters a collaborative environment where pupils, parents, staff, and governors work together to create a safe and nurturing atmosphere. Students express pride in their school and appreciate the support they receive, which contributes to their positive attitude towards learning. The behavior of pupils in lessons is commendable, largely due to the engaging activities planned by teachers who provide tailored support. Teachers actively monitor students' understanding, which helps maintain focus and encourages a culture of learning.
The headteacher and her dedicated staff maintain high expectations for student success across all areas of life, not just academically. This commitment is evident in the support provided to students who join the school mid-year, particularly those with limited English proficiency. The school ensures that all students achieve qualifications in English and mathematics, which are critical for their future prospects. Pupils report feeling safe both in school and during their commutes, valuing the supervision provided by staff. They indicate that bullying is not a significant issue, and they know how to report any concerns, confident that they will be addressed promptly.
The school excels in its curriculum design, with well-structured plans for teaching various subjects. Teachers motivate students through challenges and support, utilizing resources and thoughtful questioning to enhance understanding. Pupils feel encouraged to learn, and their behavior rarely disrupts the learning process. The curriculum is designed to ensure that students retain knowledge and can apply it in different contexts. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the implementation of plans for subjects like English, where leaders are already taking steps to enhance teaching practices.
Despite the school's strengths, there are challenges regarding the breadth of the curriculum offered to students in Years 7 to 9. Recent reviews have prompted leaders to develop plans to ensure that all pupils have access to a wide range of subjects for as long as possible. While a small number of students achieve qualifications in the full range of EBacc subjects, there is a noted increase in the number of pupils studying humanities and modern foreign languages in Years 9 and 10.
The school is committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they follow the standard curriculum and receive timely support. Staff are well-informed and trained to assist these students effectively. Additionally, the school provides numerous opportunities for character development, with programs that help students transition from primary to secondary education and prepare for future employment.
Attendance remains a concern, as it is currently below the national average. Leaders are actively working to improve this through various initiatives, including tracking attendance and collaborating with external agencies. The school community is characterized by mutual respect, with pupils noting the friendly atmosphere and low tension during break times.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained in current regulations and protocols. The school collaborates with families to address attendance issues and ensures pupils are educated on safety, both online and in their daily lives. Overall, while the school demonstrates many strengths, continued efforts are needed to enhance curriculum breadth, improve attendance, and ensure consistent implementation of teaching plans across all subjects.
