Dixons Unity Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 2 July 2024

Staff have high expectations for pupils' learning and behaviour. These expectations are being increasingly well realised. Pupils experience consistent routines and common approaches to teaching. This creates a strong focus on learning. Staff are particularly mindful of the needs of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Pupils are acquiring greater knowledge and skills than was previously the case. Pupils benefit from orderly classrooms and improving behaviour on site. The majority of pupils respond to the clear expectations that staff set. Leaders address and record any instances of bullying or poor behaviour. Despite this, some pupils and their parents remain concerned about bullying. The school is working ever more closely with pupils and their families to improve attendance. There are signs that this is beginning to improve. Nevertheless, overall attendance is too low and too many pupils are persistently absent. The school is building stronger links with the wider community. The 'Unity Community' provides extra support to pupils and families, helping to address the barriers that some face. Pupils learn the importance of respect. The school is taking increasing steps to widen pupils' personal development. Pupils receive thorough guidance on their next steps for future education, employment or training.

What the school should improve

• There is some variation in how well agreed learning strategies are used to check and deepen pupils' understanding. This contributes to variable progress for some pupils. The school should work with staff to refine the implementation of the curriculum to deepen pupils' learning.
• The school's high expectations for behaviour are not fully realised. Some pupils are concerned by the poor behaviour of their peers and suspensions remain high. The school should continue to work with pupils to help them to better manage their behaviour and show respect for all their peers.
• Although attendance is beginning to improve, too many pupils are absent and persistently absent from school. This means that they miss out on the improving quality of education on offer. The school should further embed their attendance improvement strategies so that pupils can benefit from the academic and pastoral support available to them.

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