Isca Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 21 June 2022

Isca is a calm and purposeful place in which to learn. Staff expect pupils to show SPARK: to be safe, prepared, actively engaged, respectful and kind. Most pupils are keen to meet these expectations. Those from all backgrounds feel welcome and included at Isca. Pupils understand some of the challenges facing those who are different from them. They learn about different faiths and cultures and the need for tolerance. Pupils behave well in lessons. They are calm when moving around the school and are punctual to lessons. Relationships with staff are positive and respectful. Few pupils have concerns about bullying. Some pupils say that not all staff deal with bullying incidents as well as they could. Most say staff deal with bullying well if it happens. Pupils have a voice in school life. Leaders listen to their views and act upon them. For example, the enrichment curriculum will be more varied next year in response to pupils' views. There is an active student council, anti-bullying ambassadors, student leaders and an LGBTQ+ group. Pupils work with staff to select some of the books that they read with their tutors.

What the school should improve

• Teachers do not always check that all pupils have learned what was intended. Consequently, some pupils have gaps in their knowledge. Leaders need to ensure that checks on learning identify gaps for all pupils so that these can be closed.
• Some parents of pupils with SEND do not feel that their child is well supported. This means they are not satisfied with the actions of the school. Leaders need to improve communication with parents so that they have greater confidence in the support that the school provides.

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