Co-op Academy Smithies Moor, located in Heckmondwike, has recently undergone significant changes and improvements since its conversion to an academy in November 2019. The school is part of The Co-op Academies Trust and is led by Catherine Brackenbury, with oversight from executive headteacher Jack Sowter. The recent inspection, conducted from April 23 to April 25, 2024, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of Requires Improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as requiring improvement, while personal development was rated as good.
Pupils at the school report a positive atmosphere, indicating that recent changes have contributed to a happier school environment. They achieve well, particularly by the end of key stage two, and the school has established strong links with the local community. However, behavior issues persist, especially during playtime and lunchtime, with some pupils experiencing regular incidences of poor behavior. While bullying is reported to be infrequent, pupils feel confident in approaching trusted adults for support.
Attendance is a focus for the school, with efforts to improve punctuality and reduce persistent absenteeism. Despite some progress, a significant number of pupils, particularly those in upper key stage two and those with special educational needs and disabilities, remain persistently absent. The school has made strides in enhancing the English and mathematics curriculum, leading to improved outcomes in key stage two and phonics screening checks. However, challenges remain in reading, writing, and mathematics outcomes at the end of key stage one, where pupils often struggle to recall previous learning.
The wider curriculum is still developing, and the school has been criticized for not adequately adapting the curriculum for pupils who require additional support, including those with special educational needs. The leadership team has a clear vision for improvement, but many changes are recent and have not yet had sufficient time to take effect. The bespoke curriculum for early reading has been implemented effectively, fostering a love of reading among pupils.
In the early years, while children are happy and well cared for, learning opportunities are underdeveloped, limiting their ability to build on prior knowledge. The school is working to implement an ambitious early years curriculum that prepares children for future learning. Personal development is a priority, with a commitment to inclusivity and celebrating diversity. Pupils are encouraged to speak up against unacceptable behavior, although some still engage in inappropriate language.
The school promotes career aspirations through various initiatives, including an annual careers week and opportunities to meet professionals. Staff report feeling well supported by school leaders and the trust, appreciating the training and resources available to them. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for pupils.
To improve, the school must ensure consistent implementation of the curriculum, revisiting prior knowledge to address misconceptions and gaps in learning. Additionally, the behavior policy needs to be effectively enforced to help pupils manage their behavior better. Overall, while Co-op Academy Smithies Moor is on a positive trajectory, there are key areas that require focused attention to enhance the educational experience for all pupils.
