Foley Infant School Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 11 July 2023

Pupils enjoy their time at Foley Infant Academy. Leaders, including the local board, are raising expectations at this school. There is a strong sense of teamwork that runs through all they do and a determination to do their best for pupils. This shared vision and high ambition mean that pupils' achievements have improved. There have been many changes in recent years. Some parents say that they do not understand why these changes were needed, while others comment that they have seen improvements in their children's education. Pupils understand the 'Foley Five Values' and say that these help them when they find things difficult. They say that kindness is the most important value. Pupils show this in their behaviour towards each other. Pupils report that they feel safe. Many say that this is because adults make them feel this way. They feel confident that if they have a problem staff will help them solve it. They know the difference between bullying and minor friendship issues. Leaders have worked to improve pupils' wider development. Leaders use assemblies to celebrate diversity and difference. They know it is important to contribute to life in their community. They raise money for charities and support events in their local village.

What the school should improve

• In some subjects, changes to the curriculum are relatively recent. This means that pupils have not yet gained the depth of knowledge in these subjects as they do in others and their understanding of how to become better is weak. Leaders should continue to embed the curriculum to ensure that pupils have the same access to knowledge and skills in all subjects.
• At times, staff do not use assessment as effectively as it could be. This means that leaders do not understand how well pupils are learning in some subjects. Leaders should ensure that assessment is purposeful and used to measure how well the curriculum is being delivered and understood.
• A significant minority of parents express concerns about communication. This has resulted in some parents not feeling informed about the many changes that have taken place in school. Leaders, including the local board, should explore ways to communicate with parents more effectively so that they have greater confidence and understanding of the school's work.

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