Dunsford Community Academy, located in Dunsford, Exeter, Devon, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 17, 2022. The school is deeply integrated into the local community, fostering a friendly environment where pupils interact positively and support one another. Students express a strong sense of safety and enjoyment in their school life, with behavior generally being good both in classrooms and throughout the school premises. The pupils assert that bullying is not an issue, and they trust that staff would address any concerns promptly.
The school emphasizes the development of strong moral values among its students, teaching them to distinguish right from wrong and promoting healthy lifestyles and positive relationships. Staff members are dedicated to helping pupils reach their full potential, demonstrating high aspirations for all students. Beyond academic learning, pupils have access to various extracurricular activities, including music lessons, which have led to notable achievements in local competitions. Older students feel well-prepared for their future educational endeavors.
Despite the school's strengths, it has faced challenges due to recent staffing changes and the impact of the pandemic, which have affected curriculum improvements. The new headteacher is aware of the need to enhance certain areas of the curriculum, and efforts are underway to address these gaps. Reading is a focal point of the curriculum, with leaders prioritizing the enjoyment of reading among pupils. Recent investments in new reading materials have been made, and staff have carefully selected books to support students' reading development. While most pupils read well, a small number who struggle with reading are not catching up as quickly as needed, partly due to some staff lacking the necessary expertise.
In subjects like mathematics, the curriculum is well-structured, with clear guidance provided to staff on what students should learn and when. Early education in number fundamentals prepares children effectively for subsequent years. Teachers build upon previously learned concepts, ensuring that pupils retain knowledge without gaps. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities generally progress well, although some additional support could be more effective.
Some older pupils have reported occasional disruptions in their learning, but staff manage these instances effectively. Concerns about behavior have been noted since the return to school post-pandemic, prompting leaders to implement new behavior management systems that are showing positive results. The curriculum for personal development helps pupils understand societal complexities, with opportunities to learn about different cultures through visitors and trips.
Local governors demonstrate a solid understanding of their responsibilities and the school's context. The majority of staff express pride in their work at the school, and most parents who participated in the Ofsted Parent View survey would recommend the school, reflecting a strong community sentiment.
Safeguarding measures at Dunsford Community Academy are effective, with appropriate recruitment checks and relevant staff training in place. Staff are vigilant regarding signs of potential harm, and pupils feel confident in seeking help from trusted adults. The curriculum includes lessons on safety, supported by external organizations that enhance pupils' understanding of how to stay safe.
To improve, the school needs to focus on providing sufficient professional development for all staff to better support pupils requiring additional help. Recent curriculum changes need to be monitored to ensure they positively impact student learning across all subjects. Overall, Dunsford Community Academy continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational environment for its pupils.
