Ercall Wood Academy, located in Wellington, Telford, Shropshire, underwent an inspection on November 8 and 9, 2022. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as requiring improvement, with specific areas of focus including the quality of education, which also requires improvement, while behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management were rated as good. This was the first inspection under section five of the Education Act 2005 since the school converted to an academy in July 2018.
The inspection highlighted that leaders and staff have high expectations for all pupils and provide a variety of experiences to support their aspirations for the future. Almost all pupils transition to sixth forms, colleges, or training after Year 11. Positive relationships between staff and pupils were noted, with a strong pastoral care system in place, referred to as ‘Mountain Rescue,’ which supports pupils with mental well-being challenges. Most pupils feel safe and enjoy attending school, and incidents of bullying are generally addressed effectively.
However, the report indicated that pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) do not receive adequate support, which affects their learning experience and enjoyment of school. Teachers are ambitious for their pupils but do not consistently check understanding or address misconceptions in a timely manner, which can hinder learning. While the curriculum is well-planned and taught in a logical order, the inconsistent use of assessment means that some pupils do not make the progress they should.
The principal has a clear vision for the school and has implemented significant positive changes since his appointment. The leadership team is ambitious for all pupils, including those with SEND, and has ensured that a wide range of subjects is available. However, the adaptation of the curriculum for SEND pupils needs improvement, as many struggle to access the expected work in lessons.
Leaders have introduced initiatives to support reading among weaker readers, particularly in phonics, which are beginning to show positive results. The behaviour policy is consistently applied, leading to a reduction in inappropriate behaviour incidents. The school provides effective careers advice starting from Year 7, helping pupils make informed decisions about their future.
Staff training and coaching are highly regarded, and there is a strong sense of pride among staff in their work at the school. The governing body and trustees maintain high expectations for the school and its pupils, providing essential support for ongoing improvement.
Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff receiving regular training and acting promptly on concerns. The school ensures that all necessary checks are completed for adults working or visiting the school. Pupils are educated on safety through the curriculum, including lessons on consent and healthy relationships.
To improve, the school needs to ensure that all teachers effectively check pupils' understanding and address any gaps in knowledge. Additionally, leaders must ensure that teachers utilize the information available to support pupils with SEND more effectively, enabling them to make the progress they should. Overall, while Ercall Wood Academy has strengths in various areas, there are clear steps needed to enhance the educational experience for all pupils.
