Outwood Academy Hemsworth is recognized as an improving school, with both pupils and staff acknowledging the positive changes implemented since the leadership transition in 2018. The school has made significant strides in enhancing the educational experience, particularly in the quality of teaching, which is deemed good. Teachers maintain clear expectations, leading to a generally positive learning environment where pupils behave well and engage actively in lessons. However, there are concerns regarding behavior outside the classroom, where the culture of respect is still developing. While attendance rates have improved, there is a need for further efforts to instill a consistent standard of behavior among pupils throughout the school.
The curriculum has been overhauled to provide a challenging academic experience across all year groups, including the sixth form. Subject leaders have developed clear curriculum plans that are effectively followed in lessons, ensuring that key learning objectives are met. Despite these advancements, some inconsistencies in the quality of academic experiences persist, prompting leaders to implement training programs aimed at addressing these variations. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support, allowing them to access the same rigorous curriculum as their peers.
The school’s personal development program is robust, offering life skills education that complements the academic curriculum. This includes lessons on tolerance, respect, and healthy relationships, which are essential given reports of bullying and unkind comments among pupils. The school has made efforts to address these issues, but there is still work to be done to ensure that all pupils feel safe and supported.
Extracurricular activities have been enhanced, utilizing the improved facilities to provide a range of clubs and activities that enrich the pupils' school experience. However, a small number of pupils attending alternative provisions do not receive the same quality of education as their peers, highlighting a gap that needs to be addressed.
Leadership and management have been proactive in implementing an ambitious school improvement program, with positive feedback from long-standing staff regarding the changes. The school’s leadership team, supported by the Outwood Grange Academies Trust, has fostered a sense of pride among staff and pupils alike. Nonetheless, the oversight of alternative provisions has not been as thorough as it should be, with governors lacking regular information to effectively challenge leaders on these arrangements.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with a dedicated team in place to ensure pupil safety and well-being. However, the checks on alternative provisions require more thoroughness to guarantee that all pupils are receiving appropriate support. The school is committed to addressing the concerns raised regarding bullying and the overall behavior of pupils outside the classroom, emphasizing the importance of a respectful and supportive school culture.
In summary, while Outwood Academy Hemsworth has made commendable progress in various areas, including the quality of education and personal development, there are still challenges to overcome, particularly in behavior management and the quality of alternative provisions. The leadership team is focused on continuous improvement, aiming to create a safe and respectful environment for all pupils.
