Dove CofE Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 5 March 2024

Dove C of E Academy is a small school with a big heart. The school motto of 'roots to grow and wings to fly' is embraced by all staff, who are committed to helping each pupil to be as successful as they can be. Throughout the school day, staff take every opportunity to interact positively with pupils. Parents really appreciate this and recognise that it helps their children to settle well in school and to develop confidence and resilience. Pupils are enthusiastic and behave well in school. This helps them learn the curriculum. In class they listen carefully and try their best. They are positive about their learning and keen to share their work with visitors. The family feel of the school continues at lunchtime when older pupils help the younger ones with their trays. Pupils play happily together in the playground. They feel that school is safe and they know they can share any worries with a trusted adult, who will help them. Pupils benefit from a range of opportunities that enrich the curriculum. These opportunities promote pupils' confidence and sense of responsibility. For instance, some pupils act as digital leaders or school councillors.

What the school should improve

• The evaluation and monitoring of some subjects is still at an early stage. As a result, subject leaders do not always have a full understanding of how well pupils learn in these subjects. The school should continue to develop the expertise and capacity of subject leaders to evaluate the effectiveness and impact of the curriculum.
• Teachers have not been explicit enough in enabling pupils to have a deep understanding of fundamental British values. Therefore, some pupils do not fully understand them. The school should ensure that pupils consistently have a deep understanding and knowledge of fundamental British values.

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