The Lowry Academy, located in Little Hulton, Manchester, was inspected on 7 and 8 February 2024, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school, which is part of the United Learning Trust, has made significant strides since its conversion to an academy in March 2021. The principal, Claire Coy, along with a newly appointed leadership team, has worked diligently to improve the quality of education and student outcomes, which were previously affected by weaknesses in the predecessor school, Harrop Fold School.
Pupils at The Lowry Academy quickly adapt to the school environment due to well-established routines that promote effective learning and positive behavior. Most students are engaged and motivated, striving to meet the ambitious learning goals set by their teachers. The school has implemented a rewards system that recognizes student efforts, contributing to a positive atmosphere where pupils feel valued and encouraged.
The academy offers a broad curriculum that has seen an increase in the number of pupils opting for the English Baccalaureate suite of subjects. This curriculum is designed to meet the needs of all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Teachers are well-trained and supported in delivering the curriculum effectively, utilizing high-quality resources and collaborative opportunities to enhance their teaching practices. However, there are instances where checks on pupils' prior learning could be improved to better identify gaps in knowledge.
The school provides a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, coding, cooking clubs, and musical opportunities, allowing pupils to explore their interests and talents outside the classroom. This holistic approach to education fosters personal development and helps students build essential life skills.
Behavior in the school is generally good, with a focus on creating a calm and purposeful learning environment. The school has successfully reduced the number and severity of behavioral incidents through targeted support for pupils who struggle with behavior expectations. Attendance is monitored closely, and while most pupils understand the importance of regular attendance, there are still some who are persistently absent, which hinders their academic progress.
The personal, social, and health education program is designed to cover a variety of important topics, but the time allocated for older pupils, particularly in Year 11, is limited. This restricts their ability to gain a comprehensive understanding of these subjects. The school recognizes the need to enhance this aspect of the curriculum to better prepare students for life beyond school.
The leadership team, supported by the United Learning Trust, has established clear accountability structures that facilitate ongoing improvement. The school is committed to raising aspirations among its pupils, providing them with valuable careers information and guidance to help them make informed decisions about their future.
Safeguarding measures are effective, ensuring that pupils are safe and well-supported. The school has made significant progress since its last inspection, and while there are areas for improvement, particularly in attendance and the depth of personal education for older students, the overall trajectory is positive. The Lowry Academy is on a path of continuous improvement, striving to provide a high-quality education that meets the needs of all its pupils.
