Estuary Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 13 June 2023

Pupils receive a positive new start when they join this school. Their individual needs are carefully identified by staff that take the time to get to know them well. Because of this, relationships between staff and pupils are very strong. Pupils develop confidence to overcome barriers to learning. An extensive programme of support helps pupils to learn how to manage their social, emotional and mental health needs. Pupils use these strategies to become increasingly resilient when faced with new challenges. The school is typically calm and orderly. Pupils report that bullying is very rare because they see themselves as 'one big family'. Staff provide pupils with tailored support to improve their skills in reading and writing. An extensive range of vocational courses such as sports science encourage pupils to consider these routes as possible career paths in the future. Leaders shape the curriculum to help pupils work towards achieving personal learning targets. This includes exciting opportunities to practise collaborative teamwork and communication. For example, pupils visit 'panic rooms' to work together to solve tasks and puzzles under pressure.

What the school should improve

• Staff do not always ensure that the teaching choices they make help pupils learn the intended curriculum. Consequently, pupils have some gaps in their knowledge meaning they can find exploring new ideas and concepts more difficult. Leaders must ensure that staff have the skills and expertise needed to effectively implement the school's curriculum.

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