Foxfields Academy, located in Blaby, Leicestershire, has been evaluated as a good school following its inspection on January 17 and 18, 2023. The school caters to pupils aged 5 to 16, specifically those with social, emotional, and mental health needs, and all students have an Education, Health, and Care plan. The inspection highlighted the school's effectiveness in meeting the academic and emotional needs of its pupils, with a strong emphasis on personal development, behavior, and attitudes.
Pupils thrive in an environment where their individual needs are recognized and supported. Staff are well-trained to assist students who may struggle with behavior and emotions, ensuring that any incidents are managed effectively to minimize disruption to learning. The school has implemented a reward system that encourages positive behavior, with pupils expressing pride in their achievements and feeling motivated to excel.
The curriculum at Foxfields Academy has been developed to be broad and balanced, with leaders working diligently to establish key knowledge and skills across subjects from Years 1 to 11. Despite challenges posed by the pandemic, the curriculum is now well-structured, although some foundation subjects are still being finalized. The core subjects of English, mathematics, and science are particularly strong, with teachers demonstrating good subject knowledge and effectively supporting pupils in their learning.
Reading is prioritized, with staff assessing pupils' abilities upon entry and providing necessary support to help them catch up. This focus has fostered a culture of confident and enthusiastic readers among the students. The personal, social, and health education curriculum is robust, addressing relevant topics and preparing pupils for life in modern Britain. The school also emphasizes the importance of healthy relationships and consent through its relationships and sex education curriculum.
Leaders and staff are committed to supporting the broader development of pupils, equipping them for future pathways into qualifications, employment, or further education. However, the school faces challenges in building strong home-school partnerships, as many pupils travel significant distances to attend. This can impact attendance and parental engagement, particularly during review meetings for Education, Health, and Care plans. Leaders recognize the need to strengthen these links to enhance support for pupils.
All pupils at Foxfields Academy have special educational needs and/or disabilities, and the school adapts its curriculum to meet individual targets. Progress is celebrated regularly, fostering a positive learning environment. Staff report feeling well-supported by leaders regarding their workload and well-being, which contributes to a positive school culture.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with a strong culture of safety established by leaders. Staff are well-trained to recognize and report concerns, and there are thorough safeguarding records in place. Pupils are educated about online safety and the importance of personal boundaries, contributing to a respectful school environment.
To improve, the school needs to finalize the curriculum in a few foundation subjects and enhance attendance, particularly by engaging parents and carers more effectively. Overall, Foxfields Academy demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and effective educational experience for its pupils, with a focus on their academic and personal development.
