Leigh Church of England Academy, located in Tile Hill, Coventry, has been evaluated as a good school following its inspection on April 27 and 28, 2022. The school has demonstrated effectiveness across various aspects, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. Pupils at the academy are reported to be happy and feel safe, with leaders maintaining high aspirations for every student. The school motto, aim ever higher, is embraced by the pupils, who take pride in their school and generally enjoy attending. However, some students do not attend regularly, which affects their learning and attitudes towards education.
Academically, pupils achieve well, and parents express satisfaction with the education their children receive. The school places a strong emphasis on reading, ensuring it is taught effectively. Pupils also benefit from a range of extracurricular activities, including workshops and residential trips that enhance their learning experiences. For instance, Year 6 students recently participated in a workshop focused on Victorian life, which enriched their understanding of history.
The school has established high expectations for pupil behavior, with students actively engaged in lessons and playing well together during social times. Bullying is not tolerated, and pupils feel confident that staff will address any concerns they may have. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, allowing pupils to build knowledge over time. Leaders have prioritized support for those needing to catch up due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and staff provide effective assistance for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring equitable access to the curriculum.
Teachers maintain high expectations and regularly assess pupils' learning, helping them to recall prior knowledge and plan future lessons accordingly. However, the development of the curriculum in certain subjects, such as art and music, has been delayed due to the pandemic, and some leaders are still gaining confidence in their subject leadership roles.
Reading is a key focus, with a structured curriculum that supports phonics teaching. Pupils read frequently and receive prompt assistance if they struggle. In the early years, children adapt well to school routines, with staff carefully planning learning based on their needs. However, there are instances where children are unclear about expectations during independent work, which can hinder their ability to consolidate learning.
The school also emphasizes personal development, teaching pupils to make safe decisions and understand healthy relationships. Strong pastoral support is in place, enabling pupils to receive necessary guidance. Initiatives such as environmental projects and community roles help pupils develop confidence and communication skills. The school promotes understanding and respect for diverse cultures and religions, preparing pupils for life in modern Britain.
Leadership at the academy is effective, with senior leaders and governors working collaboratively to ensure the best outcomes for pupils. They have a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. Staff report feeling supported in their well-being and workload.
While the school has many strengths, it faces challenges regarding attendance, particularly for some pupils. Leaders are encouraged to engage more with families to emphasize the importance of regular attendance. Additionally, the impact of recent curriculum revisions in art, design technology, and music needs to be evaluated to ensure effective learning outcomes. Finally, clearer expectations for continuous provision in the early years are necessary to support independent learning effectively. Overall, Leigh Church of England Academy is a good school with a commitment to continuous improvement and the well-being of its pupils.
