Trinity Academy Cathedral is a secondary comprehensive school located in Wakefield, which has recently undergone a successful inspection. The school has been rated as outstanding in all areas, including overall effectiveness, quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. This marks a significant achievement, especially as it was not previously inspected under the Education Act. The inspection took place on 25 and 26 May 2022, and the findings reflect the rapid improvements made by the school since its conversion to an academy in 2017.
The school is characterized by a strong sense of purpose and a supportive atmosphere that fosters student growth. Leaders have implemented a high-quality, knowledge-rich curriculum that includes a popular performing arts pathway. The pastoral care and personal development systems are comprehensive, ensuring that pupils are well-supported in their educational journey. Students exhibit exceptional behavior, demonstrating mindfulness towards one another and a strong work ethic. The school has established a system called ‘Call it Out’ to address bullying, which has empowered students to report concerns confidently, knowing that staff will respond effectively.
Trinity Academy Cathedral offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, cultural, and creative opportunities, which students greatly appreciate. The leadership team is passionate about serving the community and has worked diligently with their trust to implement rapid changes while maintaining the school’s local identity and Church of England ethos. The achievements of the pupils and their future destinations are a source of pride for the leaders.
The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, focusing on the full range of English Baccalaureate subjects alongside the performing arts program. Teachers are dedicated to ensuring that students acquire and retain essential knowledge, which prepares them for subsequent learning stages. For instance, in music, students develop a solid understanding of key musical elements, enabling them to engage confidently with complex pieces.
The school’s approach to teaching and assessment is effective, with a focus on understanding and retention. Special educational needs and disabilities are well-managed, ensuring that all pupils receive the necessary support. Professional development for staff is robust, with a program rooted in research and tailored resources, leading to high-quality teaching delivered by knowledgeable staff. Teachers feel well-supported in their roles and take pride in their work at the school.
Pupil behavior is exemplary, with high standards established and maintained through effective systems. This results in a focused learning environment with minimal disruption. Early intervention strategies are in place to support pupils who may struggle with reading, ensuring they receive targeted assistance to build their confidence and skills.
The personal development program is comprehensive, emphasizing the importance of self-belief and character development. Safety education is integrated into the curriculum, and a wide range of enriching experiences is offered to students, who feel they have ample choices available to them.
The school has established strong governance and support systems that have facilitated rapid improvements across all areas. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a culture of vigilance and thorough training for staff. Overall, Trinity Academy Cathedral exemplifies excellence in education, providing a nurturing environment where students can thrive academically and personally.
