Waterside Academy, located in London, has undergone significant transformation since its establishment on November 1, 2019. The school is characterized by a close-knit community where staff are dedicated to ensuring the success of their pupils. The recent inspection, conducted on February 9 and 10, 2022, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good across all evaluated areas, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management.
The school fosters an environment where pupils feel valued and supported. Staff members are committed to recognizing and nurturing the talents and interests of each student. The school’s values of care, challenge, confidence, and courtesy are evident in the interactions between pupils and staff. Positive reinforcement is a key aspect of the school culture, with pupils receiving rewards such as golden tickets for their achievements. Additionally, leaders organize rewarding experiences, such as visits to theme parks, to celebrate excellent attendance.
Pupils are expected to adhere to high standards of behavior, and they generally meet these expectations. The school promotes a culture of respect and care among students, with a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying and discrimination. When incidents do occur, they are addressed promptly and effectively, contributing to a safe learning environment. Pupils demonstrate enthusiasm for learning and engage actively in lessons. Teachers provide support when students encounter challenges, helping them to build confidence as they achieve their learning objectives.
The curriculum at Waterside Academy is broad and ambitious, designed to equip pupils with essential knowledge and skills. It encourages students to think critically and work like subject specialists. The curriculum is coherent and well-structured, allowing pupils to build on their prior knowledge. Teachers are expected to maintain high standards for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. While the teaching staff generally demonstrate good subject knowledge, there is room for improvement in systematically checking pupils’ understanding to ensure that all students are adequately prepared for new learning.
The school places a strong emphasis on literacy and communication skills. Teachers encourage pupils to articulate their thoughts clearly and provide opportunities for reading aloud in lessons. Initiatives such as reading mentorship for younger students and celebrating events like World Book Day contribute to fostering a love of reading among pupils. The school’s effective behavior policy ensures that low-level disruptions are managed appropriately, allowing for a focused learning environment.
In terms of personal development, the school provides opportunities for pupils to learn about diversity and engage in community service through charity events. Leaders are proactive in organizing career education and experiences to guide pupils in their future choices. The safeguarding measures in place are robust, with a strong culture of vigilance among staff. Regular training ensures that all staff are equipped to identify and respond to safeguarding concerns effectively.
While the school has made commendable progress, there are areas for improvement. Teachers should enhance their methods for checking pupils’ understanding to ensure that prior learning is secured and that students can complete tasks independently. Overall, Waterside Academy is a school that prioritizes the well-being and success of its pupils, creating a supportive and enriching educational environment.
