Co-op Academy Walkden, located in Manchester, has recently undergone an inspection, receiving an overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection took place on May 23 and 24, 2023, and it was the first routine inspection since the school became an academy in December 2018. The school has a strong sense of community, where pupils are encouraged to express themselves and develop positive relationships with peers and staff. The inclusive environment fosters high aspirations among students, and leaders have set clear expectations for both learning and behavior.
The quality of education at Co-op Academy Walkden is rated as good, with a well-structured curriculum that allows pupils to choose from a variety of academic and vocational subjects by the end of Year 9. The school emphasizes the importance of modern foreign languages, and an increasing number of pupils, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds, are studying the English Baccalaureate suite of subjects. Although some pupils who left Year 11 in 2022 did not achieve results in line with national averages, current pupils are making good progress through the curriculum.
Subject leaders have a clear understanding of the knowledge that pupils need to acquire, and the curriculum is sequenced effectively to build on prior learning. Teachers utilize their expertise to reinforce key concepts and regularly assess pupils' understanding. However, there is some variability in the implementation of the curriculum across different subjects, which can affect the learning experience for some pupils. Leaders are aware of this and are working to ensure that all teachers receive the necessary training and support.
Reading is a priority at the school, with subject leaders incorporating wider reading into their curriculums. Pupils engage with authentic texts, which enhances their understanding of subjects and helps them develop subject-specific vocabulary. The school has effective programs in place to support pupils with gaps in their reading knowledge, and various reading initiatives encourage participation and enjoyment of literature.
Co-op Academy Walkden has made significant strides in supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Leaders have raised expectations for these pupils and ensure they are fully included in all aspects of school life. The specially resourced provision caters to pupils with specific learning difficulties, and staff are adept at adapting lessons to meet individual needs.
The school has recently introduced a new behavior system, resulting in a decrease in incidents of poor behavior. The presence of staff around the school contributes to a calm and orderly environment. While attendance has improved, there remains a significant minority of pupils, including those with SEND and disadvantaged pupils, who do not attend school regularly.
The personal, social, and health education curriculum is designed to promote pupils' wider development, but some teachers lack the subject expertise to deliver it effectively. This gap in knowledge can leave some pupils less informed about important life skills. Nevertheless, the school provides valuable guidance on future careers, ensuring pupils are well-prepared for their next steps in education or employment.
Overall, Co-op Academy Walkden has demonstrated a commitment to improvement and has made significant progress since joining the Co-op Academies Trust. Leaders are knowledgeable about the school’s strengths and areas for development, and they prioritize the well-being of both pupils and staff. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance and support for pupils' welfare. The school is well-positioned to continue its journey of improvement and to provide a high-quality education for all its pupils.
