Dyson Perrins CofE Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 7 June 2023

Pupils are happy and feel safe at this inclusive school. Leaders have created a culture in school which celebrates difference. This is done particularly well for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), as well as pupils from the LGBTQ+ community. As a result, pupils are respectful and welcoming to all. This prepares them well for life in modern Britain. Staff have high expectations for pupils in all aspects of school life. Pupils live up to these. This is reflected in their positive behaviour and their participation in all aspects of school life. Pupils' behaviour in and around school is calm and friendly. There are extensive opportunities for pupil leadership roles. For example, prefects are role models for their peers, careers champions support the careers leader, and the eco-committee works to protect the environment. Pupils appreciate the value that leaders give to their opinions. The wider development offer at the school is strong. The house system creates a competitive buzz around the school. Pupils particularly enjoy events such as dodgeball, creative writing, and baking. There are many extra-curricular activities on offer, such as calligraphy, drama, and the 'fun fit' programme, which is an adapted sports programme for pupils with SEND. Many pupils participate in these.

What the school should improve

• Some teachers do not check pupils' understanding before introducing new learning. This means that, at times, misconceptions and gaps in knowledge widen. Leaders should ensure that teachers use assessment effectively to check pupils' understanding and adapt their teaching to meet the needs of all pupils.
• Some pupils are persistently absent. This means they miss out on the good quality of education they are entitled to. Leaders should act swiftly to improve the attendance of all pupils by evaluating and reviewing the wide range of strategies in use and refine and adapt their approaches accordingly.
• Currently, pupils are not reading widely for pleasure. This means that pupils do not fully develop their enjoyment of reading as well as they could. Leaders should consider the range and relevance of texts within the reading curriculum in order to promote pupils' enjoyment of reading.

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