The Laurel Academy, located in Mexborough, South Yorkshire, underwent its first inspection under the Education Act 2005 on February 22 and 23, 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with consistent ratings of good across various categories including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. The school has not been previously inspected under section five of the Education Act.
The inspection highlighted that leaders at the school are ambitious for all pupils, fostering a strong focus on learning within the classroom. The curriculum is designed to be ambitious and relevant to local employment opportunities, with an increasing number of pupils pursuing the English Baccalaureate suite of qualifications. Pupils are achieving well in external examinations, and the emphasis on reading is having a positive impact on their literacy skills.
A culture of high expectations has been established, resulting in minimal disruption from poor behaviour. Staff frequently use rewards to celebrate pupils' achievements, and instances of bullying are rare. When bullying does occur, staff respond effectively. Relationships between pupils and staff are characterized by politeness and respect, contributing to a positive school environment. Attendance rates have improved since the pandemic, and pupils are generally punctual.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including academic and sporting clubs, and provides high-quality vocational taster days at local providers as part of its careers education. Personal, social, and health education is integrated into the curriculum through ethics, philosophy, and citizenship lessons, assemblies, and tutor time. However, pupils' knowledge of other important learning areas, such as different faiths, is not as secure as desired.
Subject leaders have developed a broad curriculum, identifying key knowledge for pupils to retain. Teachers effectively build on prior knowledge and adapt lessons to meet the needs of all pupils, including disadvantaged students and those with special educational needs and disabilities. Regular assessments help teachers gauge pupil understanding.
The school has prioritized reading fluency, providing additional support for pupils in the early stages of learning to read. All pupils engage in regular reading during tutor time, and a new initiative encourages wider reading. However, some pupils struggle with vocabulary, which affects their ability to express themselves confidently.
While attendance is higher than pre-pandemic levels, the proportion of persistently absent pupils remains a concern. Leaders have implemented systems to address attendance issues and work closely with families to improve rates. Behaviour in classrooms and around the school is generally well-regulated, with appropriate use of suspensions when necessary.
The school's vision extends beyond academics, with a strong focus on careers education. Pupils receive independent advice and engage with colleges and employers, leading to successful future destinations. Enrichment opportunities are increasing, and many pupils, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds, participate actively.
The curriculum covers essential topics such as healthy relationships, but some areas, like knowledge of other cultures, require further development. Leaders have a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement, and the trust provides support for leadership development. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff well-trained to recognize and report concerns.
To enhance the school's effectiveness, leaders should continue to focus on improving pupils' vocabulary and further develop the ethics, philosophy, and citizenship curriculum to strengthen pupils' understanding of diverse cultures and faiths. Overall, The Laurel Academy demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering personal development among its pupils.
