The Fusion Academy is a special educational institution located in Barwell, Leicester, catering for pupils with communication and interaction difficulties. The school has established a welcoming and inclusive environment characterized by strong relationships between staff and students. During the inspection conducted on April 25 and 26, 2023, the school was rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. This was the first inspection under the Education Act 2005 since the school opened in September 2020.
Pupils express enjoyment in attending school and feel safe within its environment. The leadership team has set high expectations for all students, ensuring that staff are attentive to those who may require additional support. The school provides sensory breaks and resources to help reduce anxiety, contributing to minimal disruption during lessons. Respect among pupils and staff is evident, with a strong understanding of the unacceptability of bullying, which is reported to be infrequent. The school promotes personal development through various activities, including events like Fusion Fest, where students showcase their talents.
The curriculum at The Fusion Academy is broad and ambitious, tailored to meet the specific needs of students with special educational needs and disabilities. Leaders have outlined clear expectations for learning in most subjects, enabling pupils to build essential knowledge for their future education and careers. However, in a few subjects, the curriculum is still being refined, which has led to some pupils not achieving their full potential. Communication is emphasized throughout the school, with staff working collaboratively to develop individualized curriculums that align with each pupil's education, health, and care plan outcomes.
Teachers employ a structured lesson format that includes recaps, engagement, and reviews, regularly checking on pupil progress and providing constructive feedback. Reading is prioritized, with creative methods used to enhance engagement, such as drama and discussions. The school also offers targeted phonics support for those needing extra help with reading.
Behavior management is approached as a form of communication, allowing staff to understand and address issues effectively. Positive engagement targets are discussed regularly, fostering strong relationships between pupils and staff. While attendance is generally good, some pupils are persistently absent, which the school is actively working to improve.
The school offers a comprehensive personal development program, covering essential life skills such as cookery, online safety, and financial management. Pupils are also provided with a robust careers education program, including personalized career action plans developed with an independent careers adviser.
Leadership at The Fusion Academy is characterized by knowledgeable and caring individuals who receive strong support from trustees. Staff report feeling well-supported and valued, contributing to a positive working environment. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to any concerns regarding pupil welfare.
In summary, The Fusion Academy demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education tailored to the needs of its pupils. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in refining the curriculum and addressing attendance issues, the school has established a solid foundation for fostering student growth and development. The positive feedback from parents and the supportive atmosphere within the school highlight its effectiveness in transforming the lives of its students and their families.
