Abbs Cross Academy and Arts College

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 13 December 2022

Trustees, leaders and staff have high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Pupils respond well to the demands of their teachers. They embrace the opportunities the school offers. Pupils feel happy and safe. They appreciate the pastoral care they receive. Pupils behave well. Relationships between pupils are supportive and respectful. Bullying is rare. When it does occur, leaders act quickly. Some pupils are anti-bullying coordinators, who lead assemblies and are available for pupils to talk to. Leaders have created a strong ethos of older pupils supporting others. For example, health ambassadors from Year 10 lead aspects of physical education (PE) for Year 7 pupils, and a group of Year 11 pupils volunteered overseas. Pupils develop their talents and interests through a wide range of clubs. Those who take part in music, dance and drama clubs are particularly enthusiastic about these. Pupils typically express the view that these clubs allow them to 'learn to be a professional'. Leaders ensure that pupils take part in visits to enhance their learning. For example, pupils visited a theatre to take part in a workshop on Romeo and Juliet, which they were studying in lessons.

What the school should improve

• Teaching does not consistently take into account gaps in learning that pupils might have. As a result, sometimes, pupils' progression through the curriculum is not secured. Leaders should ensure that teachers routinely check on previous learning and then close any gaps before they introduce new material.
• Careers education is not fully embedded in the curriculum. Pupils do not find out about the range of careers each subject can lead to. This limits pupils' knowledge of progression routes. Leaders should ensure that careers are considered through the curriculum.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)