Stockingford Academy, located in Nuneaton, Warwickshire, has recently undergone an inspection on January 23 and 24, 2024, and has been rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The headteacher, Gillian Bowser, leads the school, which is part of the Inspire Education Trust, overseen by CEO Lois Whitehouse and a board of trustees chaired by David Bermingham.
Pupils at Stockingford Academy express a strong sense of belonging and appreciation for their school, noting the care and attentiveness of the staff. The school fosters a nurturing environment where values such as excellence, resilience, fairness, and partnership are integral to the community. High expectations are set for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, and significant improvements have been noted since the school became an academy, leading to better learning outcomes.
Behaviour among pupils is commendable, with respectful relationships evident between staff and students. Pupils are encouraged to understand and discuss emotions, fostering a supportive atmosphere. Leadership roles, such as school councillors and eco-councillors, allow students to take responsibility and engage in community initiatives, including charity fundraising and environmental awareness. The school also enriches learning through visits from authors and other professionals.
The curriculum is well-structured and ambitious, particularly in core subjects, where clear learning objectives are established. Teachers effectively assess student progress and provide necessary support, resulting in improved knowledge retention and achievement. However, there is ongoing refinement needed in some foundation subjects to clarify essential knowledge for pupils. Teachers are well-trained and deliver engaging lessons, particularly in early years, where children demonstrate high motivation and curiosity.
Reading is a priority at Stockingford Academy, with staff dedicated to enhancing vocabulary and phonics skills from early years. Pupils benefit from a variety of reading materials that align with their learning levels, contributing to their development as confident readers. The school’s support for pupils with special educational needs is a notable strength, with tailored plans and specialized provisions ensuring that these students receive effective support.
Pupils display positive attitudes towards learning, demonstrating skills such as following instructions and teamwork from an early age. The school has made strides in improving attendance, although some pupils still miss school too frequently, impacting their learning opportunities. The personal development curriculum equips students with essential life skills, including online safety and financial management, while also addressing important social topics.
Despite the strengths, there are areas for improvement. The school needs to enhance opportunities for pupils to learn about British values and broaden their career aspirations. Additionally, strategies to improve attendance should be further developed to ensure all pupils benefit from the educational offerings. Overall, Stockingford Academy is a well-managed institution that prioritizes the needs of its pupils, fostering a positive learning environment while continuously striving for improvement.
