Coal Clough Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 25 January 2024

Pupils are proud of their school. They know that they have adults around them who believe in them and want them to succeed. Most pupils have not had a successful experience in their previous schools. Coal Clough Academy gives pupils the support that they need to put the past behind them and to focus on the future. Pupils respond well to the school's high expectations for their achievement. Pupils thrive and excel as individuals and in their learning. Pupils benefit from the happy family atmosphere in school. They enjoy socialising with their friends and with staff at break- and lunchtimes. Pupils play table tennis and indoor or outdoor games together. They know that staff will listen to them and help them if they are struggling to learn or have any worries. This supports pupils to feel settled and confident in school. Pupils understand and accept that the school's policies are there to keep them safe. For example, pupils were positive in their response to a recent change to the policy on mobile phones. Sometimes, pupils do fall out. When this happens, staff respond swiftly to help pupils to resolve any differences and to move on.

What the school should improve

• Pupils do not have regular opportunities to read for pleasure and within subjects. This prevents pupils from broadening their skills and knowledge in a range of subjects. The school should ensure that reading across all subjects is embedded so that pupils can deepen their understanding.

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