Ark Acton Academy, located in Acton, London, underwent its first inspection under the Education Act 2005 on February 2 and 3, 2023. The school received an overall effectiveness rating of Good across all evaluated areas, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth-form provision. The inspection highlighted the commitment of school leaders to ensure that all pupils, regardless of their starting points, achieve academic success. Strong routines have been established to support all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Pupils are encouraged to embody the school’s values of honesty, hard work, and kindness.
The school environment is described as calm, with sensible behavior among pupils. Teachers have high expectations, and students have reported noticeable improvements in behavior and attitudes towards learning in recent years. The school prioritizes safety, with effective measures in place to address any instances of bullying. Personal development opportunities are abundant, including participation in the school council and various extracurricular activities such as music, sports, and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme.
The curriculum is designed to meet the diverse needs of all pupils, with careful consideration given to how knowledge is built from Year 7 to Year 13. Subject leaders have ensured that pupils accumulate knowledge both within and across subjects, exemplified by the integration of graphing skills in science and mathematics. The school has seen an increase in the number of pupils studying the English Baccalaureate subjects, particularly modern foreign languages, due to proactive measures taken by leaders.
Assessment practices are robust, allowing leaders to track pupil progress effectively. Teachers generally check for understanding and address learning gaps, although there are instances in a few subjects where the pace of teaching may not allow all pupils to secure their understanding before moving on. In the sixth form, students receive appropriate resources and support to foster independent learning.
Reading is a top priority, with various interventions in place to support pupils who need assistance. Daily reading support is provided, helping pupils develop fluency and confidence, enabling them to access the curriculum effectively. The school also supports pupils with SEND, ensuring they achieve the best possible outcomes through clear guidance for staff.
Disruptive behavior is managed effectively, with staff maintaining vigilance during transitions between classes. Leaders are focused on improving attendance and ensuring that all pupils participate in a well-structured personal development program. The governing body plays a supportive role in sustaining improvements, with staff expressing appreciation for the approachability and responsiveness of senior leaders.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a well-organized safeguarding team and clear procedures for reporting concerns. Staff are trained to recognize risks and act swiftly to support pupils in need. Pupils receive education on safety through personal, social, and health education classes.
To enhance the school further, leaders are encouraged to ensure that teaching consistently identifies and addresses gaps in pupils’ knowledge, allowing for a more secure understanding of key concepts. Overall, Ark Acton Academy demonstrates a strong commitment to fostering an environment conducive to learning and personal growth for all its pupils.
