Big Creative Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 23 January 2024

Learners experience a broad range of exceptional learning opportunities which helps them realise their individual ambitions. Learners are able to express the passion for the creative and sports industries that they share with staff. Learners push themselves to realise their aspirations in the safe and professional community that staff have built across the academy. Learners are rightly proud of the inclusive culture of the academy. They value the positive relationships they have with staff, who are highly vigilant to their needs and respectful of their individuality. Learners understand their own role in preserving the kind and respectful atmosphere for all learners. Often, learners work with others studying different subjects. For example, learners studying art and design partner with others studying music and media to learn techniques beyond their subject, such as camera work and set design. Learners gain a deep understanding of the creative media industry and develop the skills to work effectively with other professionals. Learners show exemplary professional behaviour across the academy, including when using the range of industry-standard facilities and equipment. Learners are committed to attending their programmes. They arrive early, well prepared and are often engrossed in performance from the start of lessons. Learners feel safe and comfortable in the academy. They appreciate the excellent support that they receive from staff, all of whom know learners and care for them well. Learners explore sophisticated concepts through a thought-provoking well- being curriculum. Learners learn the skills to navigate and maintain heathy relationships as skilled staff teach them about attachment theory, love language and coercive control. Where learners need additional support, they visit mental health officers on site. Staff prepare learners well for their next steps through extensive guidance on career opportunities available to them. A plethora of external speakers give talks about their own work and career paths. Most learners move on to well-earned places at specialist arts universities or go straight into employment in creative industries, often that they did not think were within their reach.

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