Dixons Brooklands Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 26 November 2024

Raised expectations are helping to change the school's culture. In recent years, pupils' experiences of school have improved considerably. However, the school recognises that there is more to do to ensure that all pupils receive a good-quality education and that pupils' behaviour and attendance meet the school's high expectations. Most pupils recognise that the school has improved in recent years. Many are happy and enjoy school. Inspectors spoke to pupils who said that they now feel safe. Most pupils said that if they raise a concern, it is dealt with well by staff. The school has given careful thought to how pupils learn, and it has designed subject curriculums accordingly. However, some pupils do not achieve as well as they should. This is because there is inconsistency in how well the curriculum is delivered across the school. Standards of behaviour are improving because the school has established clear expectations for pupils' conduct. Nonetheless, some staff do not apply the school's behaviour systems consistently well. At times, lessons are still impacted by low-level disruption. Opportunities for pupils to contribute to the school community are growing. For example, pupils enjoy sharing their views during pupil council meetings. They know that they have a strong voice in the school.

What the school should improve

• There is variation in how well the curriculum is implemented. In a few areas, the school's teaching strategies are not fully embedded. In others, teachers introduce new learning before pupils are ready. Consequently, some pupils, including some with SEND, do not achieve as highly as they could. The school should enhance teachers' understanding of its chosen teaching methods so that they are fully equipped to deliver the curriculum consistently well.
• While the school utilises robust systems and processes to improve attendance, some pupils, including pupils with SEND and disadvantaged pupils, still miss too much school. This has a detrimental impact on their learning. The school must ensure that parents and pupils understand the importance of attending school regularly.
• Some staff do not apply the behaviour policy consistently well. As a result, a minority of pupils frequently distract others. This disrupts learning for other pupils. The school should ensure that staff implement the agreed behaviour strategies effectively so that pupils can learn well in lessons.
• The school and the trust are making considerable strides in transforming the school's culture and ethos. However, there are some parents who do not recognise and understand the extent of these improvements or the reasons behind them. The school should continue providing parents with regular opportunities to engage in the life and improvement of the school.

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