Atlantic Academy Portland is an all-through school located in Dorset, which has undergone significant improvements in recent years. The school has demonstrated a strong commitment to high expectations and ambitious goals for its pupils, which has resulted in a positive learning environment. The atmosphere within the school is calm and orderly, allowing students to focus on their education without disruptions. Respect among pupils is evident, and instances of bullying are rare. When bullying does occur, staff members address it effectively, fostering a sense of safety and community among students.
The leadership team has been proactive in building relationships with the local community and utilizing the unique surroundings of the school to enhance the educational experience. For instance, Reception children benefit from engaging learning experiences at the beach school. The curriculum is evolving to create a connected learning experience across all year groups, with teachers collaborating to share their expertise. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring clarity regarding the concepts that will deepen pupils' understanding as they progress through the curriculum.
Reading is a central focus at Atlantic Academy, with phonics instruction starting early in a child's education. The school provides immediate support for students who struggle with reading, and older pupils assist younger ones, promoting a culture of collaboration and support. The English curriculum is designed to expand vocabulary and comprehension, with a strong emphasis on reading for pleasure. Recent initiatives aim to enhance the reading experience for older students, addressing the need for a more sophisticated vocabulary.
Personal development is prioritized, with a range of extracurricular activities available to students. The school promotes British values through democratic processes and provides a comprehensive curriculum for personal, social, health, and economic education. While the school has made strides in addressing the findings from the Ofsted sexual abuse review, some aspects require more timely action. Career guidance is effective, ensuring that pupils are well-prepared for their future endeavors.
Assessment practices are regularly employed to monitor pupil progress, although there are instances where assessments may not provide the most useful insights for improving understanding. Disadvantaged pupils receive targeted support to remove barriers to their learning, and most teachers make reasonable adjustments for students with special educational needs and disabilities. However, there are occasions when specific support for these pupils could be enhanced.
At key stage four, the school has seen a lower than average uptake of the English Baccalaureate, primarily due to a lack of language options among pupils. Nevertheless, leaders are actively working to increase participation in language studies, with recent changes in the curriculum for key stage two students aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of French.
The safeguarding measures in place are robust, with leaders dedicated to ensuring the welfare of all pupils. They collaborate closely with families and external agencies to protect vulnerable students. Staff undergo regular training to stay updated on safeguarding practices, and pupils are educated on how to keep themselves safe in various situations, including online environments.
Overall, Atlantic Academy Portland has made commendable progress in creating a supportive and effective educational environment. While there are areas for growth, particularly in curriculum clarity and assessment practices, the school is well-positioned to continue its positive trajectory and further enhance the learning experiences of its pupils.
