Langley Mill Academy, located in Nottinghamshire, underwent its first inspection under the Education Act 2005 on July 12 and 13, 2022. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as requiring improvement, along with the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. The school has not been previously inspected under section five, indicating that this was a significant evaluation of its current state.
Pupils at Langley Mill Academy generally express positive sentiments about their school experience, with many feeling fortunate to attend. They demonstrate a good understanding of the school's values, which include respect, confidence, aspiration, determination, and kindness. However, there are gaps in their understanding of fundamental British values such as tolerance and democracy, particularly among some pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. While most students are polite and courteous, a small number struggle with behavior management, indicating a need for more tailored support.
The school prioritizes safeguarding, ensuring that pupils feel safe and know whom to approach with concerns. Adults in the school are committed to the well-being of the students, and recent revisions to the curriculum aim to enhance pupils' understanding of their community and the wider world. However, challenges remain, particularly in reading instruction, where some pupils are provided with texts that do not match their reading levels, hindering their progress.
Leadership at Langley Mill Academy has seen significant changes, with new appointments in key positions. Leaders are working to refine the curriculum, focusing on vocabulary development and educational experiences. While progress has been made in subjects like mathematics and history, other areas are still in the early stages of development, lacking clarity on essential knowledge that pupils need to retain. This inconsistency affects teachers' ability to assess and build upon prior learning effectively.
The school has implemented a new behavior support approach, which has been recognized positively by pupils, parents, and staff. However, some pupils, especially those with challenging behaviors, do not receive timely and appropriate support, indicating a need for improved systems to identify and address their needs. The school offers a variety of extracurricular clubs, contributing to a well-rounded educational experience, and leaders are proactive in educating pupils about local risks and healthy relationships.
Despite the positive aspects, the inspection highlighted several areas for improvement. Some pupils struggle with reading due to mismatched materials, which affects their overall learning experience. Additionally, the curriculum in certain foundation subjects lacks proper sequencing, making it difficult for pupils to retain knowledge over time. There is also a noted deficiency in pupils' understanding of British values, which is particularly concerning for those who are disadvantaged.
In conclusion, while Langley Mill Academy has made strides in various areas, it faces challenges that require attention. Leaders must ensure that all pupils receive appropriate support tailored to their needs, particularly in reading and behavior management. Furthermore, enhancing the curriculum to ensure a comprehensive understanding of British values is essential for preparing pupils for life in a diverse society. The commitment of staff and leadership to improve the educational experience is evident, but ongoing efforts are necessary to achieve the desired outcomes for all students.
