Goole Academy, located in East Yorkshire, has received a positive inspection report, indicating overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on September 21 and 22, 2022, and the school has not been previously inspected under the current framework. The leadership team is ambitious and dedicated to ensuring that all pupils, including disadvantaged students and those with special educational needs, achieve success. Teachers are well-trained to support students effectively, and there is a strong emphasis on understanding individual pupil needs.
Pupils at Goole Academy demonstrate good behavior both in lessons and throughout the school environment, contributing to a calm and orderly atmosphere. Clear routines and expectations for behavior are established by teachers, allowing students to focus on their learning. The school prioritizes mental well-being, providing timely support to pupils, who feel safe and confident in reporting any concerns, including bullying.
Parents have noted significant improvements in the school and express positive sentiments about the educational environment. The leadership team is focused on building strong connections with the local community, including partnerships with colleges and employers to support pupils in their educational and career pathways.
The curriculum at Goole Academy is ambitious, well-planned, and sequenced to meet the needs of all pupils. An increasing number of students are studying a range of academic subjects that contribute to the English Baccalaureate. Teachers exhibit strong subject knowledge and present material clearly, particularly in mathematics, where they break down complex problems into manageable steps. However, some pupils struggle to recall long-term information, which can hinder their ability to tackle new learning effectively.
The school encourages reading for pleasure, providing dedicated time for independent reading and identifying pupils who may need additional support. A well-trained staff team offers the necessary assistance, enabling pupils to catch up quickly and appreciate the help they receive.
Staff at Goole Academy feel supported by leadership, with manageable workloads and a sense of value in their roles. The school has established effective behavior management systems, ensuring that positive behavior is consistently reinforced. Strong relationships between staff and pupils are evident, with high-quality pastoral support available for those in need.
The personal development curriculum is well-structured, featuring external speakers who address various topics. While some aspects of the curriculum are still developing, leaders are responsive to emerging concerns and local context. However, due to scheduling constraints, a small number of pupils have limited access to this program.
The careers curriculum is a notable strength, ensuring compliance with the Gatsby benchmarks for career guidance. Pupils receive valuable information and support to prepare them for future education, training, or employment opportunities. The enrichment program encourages pupils to explore their talents and interests through various clubs and activities, fostering character development and resilience.
The safeguarding arrangements at Goole Academy are effective, with staff trained to identify and report concerns promptly. Pupils are educated on safety in the community and online, and they trust the adults in the school to provide necessary support.
To improve further, the school needs to address gaps in pupils' knowledge in certain subjects, ensuring that all students have access to the full personal, social, and health education curriculum. This will help prepare them for life in modern Britain and ensure they have the foundational knowledge required for future learning. Overall, Goole Academy is making significant strides in providing a supportive and effective educational environment for its pupils.
