Arnold Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 23 May 2023

Pupils enjoy attending Arnold Academy. They have many opportunities to develop their character and confidence. These include through the school council, and involvement in fundraising activities for charities, including cancer research and Ukrainian refugees. There is a range of clubs for pupils to attend, including art and yoga. Pupils also have the opportunity to take part in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme, which develops their resilience. Trips and visits are linked to the curriculum to develop pupils' knowledge and stimulate their interest. Year 5 and 6 both recently attended 'faith tours' of Bedford, visiting places of worship. This helps pupils to learn about a range of religions. Pupils feel safe and know how to report concerns. There is little bullying. If it happens, it is dealt with swiftly. They have a positive attitude to their learning. They behave well in lessons and are respectful to adults. Pupils are friendly to each other, although some do not always use appropriate language towards other pupils out of lessons. All pupils access a broad and engaging curriculum. Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are given effective support. This contributes towards pupils with SEND taking part and doing well in lessons.

What the school should improve

• Newer subject leaders do not routinely monitor the effectiveness of the curriculum often enough, or with enough focus on improving the quality of the curriculum. Leaders should ensure that all subject leaders are well trained to monitor the quality of the curriculum effectively so that they can gauge the impact of their intended curriculum on pupils' achievement.
• Some teachers do not fully understand how to match work to all pupils' needs and provide a high level of challenge. As a result, these pupils do not always make the progress that they should. Leaders should ensure that all teachers are provided with the training they need so that they consistently deliver a challenging curriculum that meet the needs of all pupils, including those pupils with SEND.
• A significant minority of pupils routinely use inappropriate language to each other, and pupils are too ready to accept this. This is because they have not learned what is and what is not acceptable language, and why. Leaders need to ensure that the curriculum addresses these issues to create a positive environment where derogatory language is not used or accepted by other pupils.

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