Charter Academy, located in Coventry, West Midlands, has recently undergone an inspection on 12 and 13 March 2024, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school, which serves pupils aged 2 to 11, is part of the Castle Phoenix Trust and is led by headteacher Louise Stewart. The inspection highlighted several strengths within the school, particularly in the areas of personal development, where it received an outstanding rating, and in the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, leadership and management, and early years provision, all rated as good.
Pupils at Charter Academy exhibit a high level of happiness and engagement in their learning environment. The staff have cultivated a safe and respectful atmosphere where kindness and politeness are emphasized. From an early age, students are encouraged to develop confidence, resilience, and independence, understanding that making mistakes is part of the learning process. The school maintains high expectations for all pupils, who strive to meet these standards and demonstrate good behavior, contributing to a safe school environment.
A key focus of the curriculum is oracy, which has significantly enhanced pupils' communication skills. Through the teaching of oracy, students learn to articulate their thoughts and listen effectively, benefiting their learning across all subjects. The school also provides a variety of extracurricular activities, including forest school lessons and educational trips that are linked to classroom learning, enriching the overall educational experience.
The curriculum is designed to be ambitious and inclusive, catering for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school has identified essential knowledge for pupils to acquire, enabling them to make connections between new and existing knowledge. However, some pupils occasionally require additional time to fully grasp new concepts. While teachers generally possess good subject knowledge, there are instances where some staff may lack confidence in certain curriculum areas, which can affect their responsiveness to pupils' immediate learning needs. Assessment practices are effective in most subjects, but there are a few areas where improvements are needed to ensure that teachers have the necessary information to enhance pupil learning.
The school fosters strong relationships between staff and pupils, creating a supportive learning environment. Classroom routines are well established, ensuring that learning is maximized and that pupils feel secure. The school collaborates closely with families of pupils with special educational needs, providing tailored support to meet individual needs. Reading is prioritized, with effective phonics instruction and regular progress checks to assist pupils who may fall behind.
The personal development program offers numerous opportunities for pupils, including leadership lessons and cultural experiences that promote understanding of British values. Pupils engage in various activities that enhance their social and emotional development, preparing them for future challenges. In the early years, children develop strong friendships and positive relationships with staff, with a focus on language development and emotional management.
The inspection identified areas for improvement, particularly in monitoring and assessment processes in some foundation subjects, which may hinder effective planning for subsequent learning. Additionally, some teachers may require further support to build confidence in delivering the curriculum effectively. Overall, Charter Academy demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement and the well-being of its pupils, ensuring a positive educational experience.
