Appleton Academy is an inclusive and friendly school located in Bradford, West Yorkshire, catering for both primary and secondary-age pupils. The recent inspection conducted on November 3 and 4, 2021, rated the school as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. Pupils express happiness and a sense of safety within the school environment, noting that any incidents of bullying are promptly addressed by staff. Parents and staff have also observed improvements in the school, particularly in behaviour, with many expressing satisfaction with the support their children receive.
The leadership team at Appleton Academy maintains high expectations for all pupils, which is evident throughout the school. The atmosphere is calm and focused, contributing to a positive learning environment. The curriculum has been enhanced across various subjects, leading to strong academic achievements among pupils. Staff are dedicated to supporting the personal development of students, ensuring their physical and mental well-being is prioritized. The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and clubs, which are well-received by pupils. Leadership roles are embraced by students, who take pride in contributing to school initiatives, such as designing playgrounds.
The school has a clear vision for improvement, with senior leaders having revised the curriculum to be ambitious and inclusive, particularly for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. The primary curriculum is broad, while the secondary curriculum has been made more challenging, providing a solid foundation for GCSE studies. Subject leaders effectively sequence lessons to build on knowledge and skills, particularly in core subjects like English, mathematics, and science. However, some subjects, such as modern foreign languages and music, require further development to ensure consistency in curriculum quality.
Teachers actively promote the use of academic vocabulary, enhancing pupils' learning across subjects. The school has successfully fostered a love of reading, with pupils engaging enthusiastically with various authors and enjoying the inviting reading areas. Phonics instruction is well-implemented, with staff trained to support children who struggle with reading, enabling them to catch up quickly.
In the early years, children are well cared for and engaged in stimulating activities that promote learning. The school is committed to inclusivity, with a resource base for pupils with communication difficulties and autism, ensuring they have access to the same curriculum as their peers. The pastoral team provides effective support for vulnerable pupils, fostering a strong safeguarding culture.
Governors are actively involved in the school, understanding its strengths and areas for improvement. They hold leaders accountable for educational quality and support staff well-being, contributing to a positive work environment. The school has established effective safeguarding arrangements, prioritizing the safety and protection of all pupils.
To further enhance the quality of education, the school needs to focus on developing curriculum plans in subjects where they are currently less robust. By implementing their existing plans for improvement, leaders can ensure that all subjects provide pupils with the necessary skills and knowledge for their academic growth. Overall, Appleton Academy demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and enriching educational experience for all its pupils.
