Burnley Road Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 19 May 2026

Pupils typically enjoy coming to school. They feel safe. Pupils know they have trusted adults to share concerns with if need be. Pupils are positive and respectful to each other and adults. Pupils know and understand the school values of compassion, courage, teamwork and perseverance. They strive to demonstrate these values in their actions around school. Leaders provide effective support for pupils with additional needs so that they can effectively access all aspects of school life. Pupils access a well planned and sequenced curriculum. However, the teaching of the curriculum is inconsistent across the school. Pupils, including those who are disadvantaged, do not achieve well at the end of key stage 2. Not all pupils are well prepared for their next steps. Pupils' achievement in national tests show that they do not achieve as well as their peers nationally. Leaders have made changes to the curriculum to improve how well pupils learn. In the early years children develop appropriate knowledge across all areas of learning. Children are well prepared for Year 1. Pupils achieve well in the phonics screening check at the end of Year 1. Pupils' attendance, including those with special educational needs and those who are disadvantaged, is below national averages. Improving pupils' attendance is a priority for school leaders. Pupils behave well across the school. At social times pupils mix well with other year groups and classes. They maturely play games such as football and basketball. Most pupils enjoy learning. Bullying is rare. When it does happen, it is dealt with effectively. All pupils are a member of one of 4 houses linked to the school values. Pupils collect points for their houses and receive house rewards in Friday assemblies. This is helping to build a sense of belonging at the school.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that pupils, including those who are disadvantaged, consistently receive the provision they need to achieve well, and that this achievement is reflected in end of key stage 2 examinations.
• Leaders should ensure that the curriculum is consistently taught well, that teachers consistently select good activities to deliver the curriculum and regularly check and address misconceptions.
• Leaders should continue to analyse attendance information closely to identify patterns and trends. They should use this information to intervene early and to remove barriers to attendance, particularly for pupils who are disadvantaged.
• Leaders at all levels should ensure that they have a robust oversight of systems and processes within the school, including those which involve keeping accurate safeguarding records.

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