Cockburn Laurence Calvert Academy, located in Middleton, Leeds, was inspected on June 4 and 5, 2024. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with specific areas such as the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, and leadership and management also receiving good ratings. Notably, personal development was rated as outstanding. The school, which is part of the Cockburn Multi-Academy Trust, is led by Head of School Victoria Smith and overseen by CEO David Gurney and a board of trustees chaired by Peter Nuttall.
The school is characterized by its inclusive and welcoming environment, where pupils are happy and confident. Leaders demonstrate ambition for both personal and academic achievements of the students. The school’s focus on a transformation to excellence is evident in the actions and words of all involved. A wide range of additional activities and educational experiences are provided, reflecting the school’s commitment to personal and social development. Pupils engage in various extracurricular activities, including dance, cookery, chess, and choir, which help them develop their talents and interests. They are encouraged to participate in charitable activities and debate topical issues, fostering a sense of responsibility and awareness of wider society.
Pastoral support is a strong feature of the school, prioritizing pupils' mental and physical health. Pupils feel comfortable approaching adults with concerns, contributing to a positive and motivating educational environment. The school excels in personal development, effectively teaching British values such as tolerance and respect. Cultural diversity is celebrated through events like an annual culture week and a pupil-led Afro-Fusion dance group. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, with a clear focus on literacy and vocabulary development across subjects. Support for pupils at early stages of reading is prioritized, ensuring they receive the necessary help to improve their skills.
Professional development for staff has positively impacted curriculum delivery, with knowledgeable and passionate teachers who understand the challenges pupils may face. Assessment practices are utilized effectively to gauge pupils' understanding. However, some pupils struggle to retain knowledge over time, which can limit their depth of understanding in certain subjects. The school provides strong support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they receive appropriate assistance and training for staff to meet diverse needs.
Attendance remains a priority, but there has been a decline in attendance rates for some groups, particularly among vulnerable pupils. The school is aware of these trends and is actively working to address them. The careers program is robust, preparing pupils for future educational and employment opportunities through guidance and exposure to various career paths.
While the governance of the school is characterized by passion and commitment, there is a need for further development in strategic understanding of certain aspects of the school’s operations. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils.
To improve, the school must ensure that all pupils achieve a deeper understanding of the curriculum and address attendance issues, particularly among vulnerable groups. By focusing on these areas, the school can enhance the quality of education and support provided to its pupils, ensuring they are well-prepared for their future endeavors.
