Avanti Fields School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 25 April 2023

Pupils enjoy attending this school. They describe the school as having an inclusive and accepting culture. Pupils have positive relationships with staff. Leaders have created an environment in which pupils feel safe and happy. Most staff have high expectations of pupils. Leaders have embedded what is commonly known as the 'Avanti Way' throughout all aspects of school life. This shared vision promotes educational excellence, character formation and spiritual insight. Pupils benefit from this approach. They become well-rounded individuals. Pupils proudly display the many badges they have earned through demonstrating leadership. There are many opportunities for pupils to contribute to school life. As one pupil put it, 'Teachers support us to become upstanders, not bystanders.' Pupils know what bullying is; they are confident in calling it out and they know teachers will deal with it. Children in the early years thrive. They are extremely well supported with love and care. They benefit from an exceptional curriculum that prepares them for the next stage. Leaders have ensured that there is no ceiling to learning for children in Nursery and Reception years. Many parents and carers would recommend the school. They value the high-quality education that their children receive, and the caring ethos of the school.

What the school should improve

• On occasions, some teachers do not use activities that are precisely matched to help pupils learn the intended curriculum. Some pupils do not learn as well as they should as a result. Leaders should ensure all teachers consistently use the most appropriate activities so pupils learn as well as they can.
• In a small number of subjects in key stage 3, the curriculum is not as well developed as in other subjects. As a result, opportunities for pupils to build on what they know are not maximised. Leaders should ensure that further curriculum development in these subjects focuses on ensuring that the curriculum allows pupils to build on their knowledge progressively.
• Some staff do not always follow the school's policy to manage behaviour and maintain high expectations. On occasions, a small number of pupils do not behave as well as they can. Leaders should ensure all staff follow the agreed approach to manage behaviour so that expectations are consistently high.

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