Diamond Academy, located in Thetford, Norfolk, underwent its first inspection since joining the Eastern Multi-Academy Trust in August 2017. The inspection, conducted on January 18 and 19, 2022, revealed significant areas of concern regarding the overall effectiveness of the school, which was rated as inadequate. The quality of education was also deemed inadequate, while behavior and attitudes were rated as requiring improvement. Personal development and leadership and management were both rated inadequate as well.
The inspection highlighted that pupils do not learn effectively due to a poorly planned curriculum. Although there have been improvements in English and mathematics, teaching in several other subjects remains insufficient. Many pupils struggle to secure essential literacy and numeracy skills, leading to gaps in their learning, particularly in reading, writing, and mathematics. The preparation for Year 6 pupils transitioning to the next stage of their education is inadequate.
While pupils generally enjoy attending school and most attend regularly, the report noted that relationships between staff and pupils are positive. Most pupils exhibit polite behavior, although a minority of older pupils do not behave well enough. Pupils feel safe and free from bullying, and effective pastoral care is provided, especially for disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs and disabilities.
The inspection identified that recent changes in leadership and staffing, compounded by the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, have hindered the development of a coherent curriculum tailored to the needs of pupils. Leaders have not established clear learning objectives or the sequence of learning, which has resulted in pupils struggling to recall previous lessons. New subject leaders are attempting to implement improvements, but staff have not received adequate training to effectively deliver the curriculum.
Despite some positive developments, such as an increase in the popularity of reading among pupils, many still do not read frequently enough to develop strong reading skills. Writing is improving, with a focus on spelling and grammar, but handwriting remains underdeveloped, affecting older pupils' performance. Mathematics teaching is hindered by inconsistent implementation of detailed planning, leading to significant gaps in older pupils' mathematical knowledge.
The school has a high proportion of disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs, who benefit from smaller class sizes and additional support. Pastoral care is a strength, with staff fostering positive relationships and providing regular support. However, pupils demonstrate a limited understanding of diverse relationships and lifestyles, and their knowledge of British values is insufficient.
A new principal has recently taken charge and has plans to build on improvements made by interim leaders. The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with a strong culture of safeguarding and appropriate training for staff. Leaders have established processes to help pupils understand online safety risks.
To improve, the school must develop a well-planned and ambitious curriculum that meets the needs of all pupils. Staff require training to effectively teach the curriculum and lead subject improvements. Additionally, the personal development of pupils must be prioritized to ensure they are well-prepared for future stages in their lives, including a comprehensive understanding of relationships and British values. The inspection concluded that significant improvements are necessary for the school to meet the educational needs of its pupils effectively.
