The Albion Academy, located in Salford, Greater Manchester, was inspected on May 23 and 24, 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with consistent performance across various aspects including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. This was the first inspection under section five of the Education Act 2005 since the school converted to an academy in February 2019.
Leaders at the academy maintain high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. This commitment is reflected in the positive responses from pupils, who generally achieve well. The school has established clear routines that promote good behavior, resulting in a respectful and focused learning environment. Pupils are polite and eager to engage in their studies, contributing to a calm atmosphere conducive to learning. Incidents of bullying are addressed effectively, fostering a sense of safety and happiness among students.
The academy offers a broad and balanced curriculum tailored to the interests and needs of its pupils. Leaders have identified essential knowledge across subjects and structured the curriculum to facilitate effective learning. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and present information clearly, helping pupils build their understanding over time. While most teachers effectively use assessment strategies to identify gaps in knowledge, a few do not, which can hinder some pupils' learning experiences.
Support for pupils struggling with reading is prioritized, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance to catch up with their peers. The school also identifies the needs of pupils with SEND early, providing tailored support that enables them to access the curriculum alongside their classmates. The majority of pupils exhibit good behavior, with rare instances of disruption. For those who struggle with behavior management, the school provides appropriate support, leading to improvements over time.
Attendance rates are generally good, although some pupils do not attend as frequently as they should, which affects their learning. Leaders are actively working with local authorities to address these attendance issues. Pupils receive valuable information about post-16 opportunities, benefiting from regular interactions with local colleges, which aids them in making informed decisions about their future education and training.
The school has recently reviewed its personal development provision, particularly at key stage three, but recognizes the need for further development at key stage four. This gap means that some older pupils may not receive a comprehensive program that prepares them adequately for life in modern Britain. The board of trustees and governors share a clear vision for the school and hold leaders accountable for the quality of education provided. Since the previous inspection, new leadership has implemented significant positive changes, ensuring that pupils benefit from a good quality of education.
Staff feel valued and appreciated, with positive feedback regarding leaders' efforts to manage workload and promote well-being. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with leaders ensuring that staff are well-trained and vigilant regarding potential risks to pupils. The school collaborates with external agencies to support vulnerable pupils and their families, ensuring they receive appropriate help when needed. Overall, the Albion Academy demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and effective educational environment, although there are areas identified for improvement, particularly in assessment practices and attendance strategies.
