King Edward VI Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 24 January 2023

Pupils have opportunities to be successful at this school. Leaders encourage pupils to live out the school values of 'ambition, aspiration, courage, resilience, honesty and respect'. Staff tell pupils to show 'KEVI courage' or 'KEVI resilience'. One pupil, typical of many, said they enjoy coming to school because they know they will be able to learn. Leaders have high expectations of pupils' behaviour. They have committed to 'disruption-free learning'. Pupils meet these expectations and, as a result, learn in classrooms where behaviour is calm and focused. Pupils feel safe. Most do not worry about bullying and would report concerns to staff. A small number of older pupils share less positive views. Leaders have ensured that there are a wide range of opportunities for pupils to develop their talents and interests. Some pupils talk enthusiastically about a fantasy tabletop role-playing game club. Many pupils take part in sports clubs and compete against other schools in the trust in the 'Winter Cup'. Pupils participate in house competitions and charity events, such as a 'Santa fun run'. Leaders have organised educational visits, such as a trip to Lincoln Cathedral for Year 7 pupils linked to what they study in history and religious education.

What the school should improve

• The curriculum is ambitious and well sequenced, and teachers use consistent and effective approaches to teach the curriculum. Although many pupils, especially younger pupils, are able to recall their learning, this is not always the case for some older pupils. As a result, some pupils are not able to make connections between current and prior learning and deepen their understanding of the subjects they study as well as they should. Leaders should ensure that teachers know how best to deploy strategies to help pupils recall their learning.
• Pupils do not have detailed knowledge of British values. Furthermore, they do not have sufficient opportunities to debate and discuss issues in lessons. This means pupils are not as well prepared for life in modern Britain as they could be. Leaders should ensure that pupils have opportunities to debate and discuss issues and to develop their understanding of British values.

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