Great Western Academy, located in Swindon, received a positive inspection report following its evaluation on January 10 and 11, 2023. The school has been rated as good across all key areas, including overall effectiveness, quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth-form provision. This marks a significant achievement for the academy, which opened in September 2018 and has since expanded by adding a new year group each academic year.
The leadership team at Great Western Academy is dedicated to fostering an environment where pupils can excel. Their vision emphasizes achievement, care, and excellence, which is reflected in the curriculum and the relationships staff have built with students. The school aims to provide a rich educational experience that extends beyond the classroom, offering a broad enrichment program that includes various clubs and activities such as geography club, coding, arts, and sports. Many students participate in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme, enhancing their personal development.
The sixth-form students play an active role in the school community, serving as peer reading buddies and taking on leadership roles such as ambassadors and prefects. Pupils feel that their voices are heard, and they appreciate the opportunities to contribute to the school’s development. The school promotes a respectful and friendly atmosphere, where students are educated about bullying and know how to report concerns. While most students exhibit positive behavior, there are instances of derogatory language that some peers do not report.
The curriculum at Great Western Academy is ambitious and well-structured, allowing students to build on their knowledge progressively. The school emphasizes the importance of revisiting key concepts to reinforce learning. Assessment practices are generally effective, although some subjects have assessments that may not be necessary. Teachers are well-equipped to support all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance to succeed.
The library serves as a central hub for fostering a love of reading, with dedicated time for students to engage with literature daily. The school encourages curiosity and provides effective support for students in the early stages of reading. The wider curriculum is robust, offering a variety of clubs and trips that enrich students' experiences. The personal, social, and health education program is well-planned, covering essential topics such as healthy relationships and British values. However, the careers program for younger pupils lacks comprehensiveness, and improvements are needed to ensure all students receive adequate information about future career options.
In lessons, students demonstrate focus and engagement, responding thoughtfully to questions and seamlessly transitioning between discussions and independent work. The high expectations set by staff contribute to a positive learning environment. The leadership team is committed to managing staff workloads effectively and providing professional development opportunities, which has resulted in a supportive atmosphere where staff feel valued.
The safeguarding arrangements at Great Western Academy are effective, with a strong emphasis on pupil safety. Staff receive regular training to identify and report potential risks, and the safeguarding team collaborates with external agencies to support vulnerable students and their families. Pupils are educated on staying safe, both online and offline, equipping them with the skills to navigate potential risks.
Overall, Great Western Academy has established itself as a good school, with a clear vision for continuous improvement. The leadership team, staff, and governing body work collaboratively to ensure that pupils receive a high-quality education and are well-prepared for their future endeavors.
