Callerton Academy, located in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, was inspected on January 23 and 24, 2024, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school, which opened on September 1, 2021, is part of The Gosforth Federated Academies Limited and serves students aged 11 to 16. The principal, Katie Innes, leads a dedicated staff committed to providing a high-quality education in a supportive environment. The school has established a positive culture where pupils are polite, friendly, and respectful, fostering strong relationships among students and staff.
The curriculum at Callerton Academy is ambitious and designed to meet high expectations for student achievement. Reading is emphasized as a central component of the educational experience, with pupils engaging actively in lessons and discussions. The school adopts a trust-wide approach to behavior management, focusing on positive reinforcement and clear consequences for misbehavior, resulting in a calm and orderly atmosphere conducive to learning.
Pupils participate in a diverse range of extracurricular activities through the 7UP program, which includes options such as Norwegian language classes, origami, musical theatre, debating, and various sports. These activities not only enrich the students' educational experience but also help them develop into well-rounded individuals prepared for active citizenship. The school also prioritizes personal development, teaching students about healthy relationships, equality, and safety in both online and offline contexts.
The inspection highlighted the strengths of the school's key stage three curriculum, which provides a coherent body of knowledge that prepares students for future studies. Pupils are encouraged to think critically and work like subject specialists, enhancing their learning through cross-curricular projects and homework. The school has cultivated a strong reading culture, ensuring that all students, including those at early stages of reading, receive the support they need to become confident readers.
While the school excels in many areas, it faces challenges regarding attendance. Levels of absence and persistent absence are relatively high, particularly among pupils with special educational needs and disadvantaged students. This issue means that some pupils miss significant portions of their education, leading to gaps in their knowledge and understanding. The school is urged to take further steps to improve attendance rates to ensure all students have the opportunity to reach their full potential.
The leadership team, supported by the trust, effectively manages the school's development and addresses the challenges of operating a new institution. The trust provides additional leadership capacity in curriculum design and teaching, helping the school navigate its growth. The commitment to staff well-being and manageable workloads contributes to a positive working environment, which is reflected in the staff's enjoyment of their roles.
Safeguarding arrangements at Callerton Academy are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and supported. The school actively engages with parents and involves them in their children's education, fostering a strong community connection. Overall, Callerton Academy demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and personal development for its pupils, while also recognizing the need to address attendance issues to enhance student outcomes further.
