King Edward VI Sheldon Heath Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 7 February 2023

King Edward VI Sheldon Heath leaders have high aspirations for every pupil. Pupils understand and follow the 'CARE' values of compassion, aspiration, respect and equality. Warm and respectful relationships characterise life at this school. Pupils are happy and safe. Pupils value the support staff give them. This motivates pupils to achieve well, and they do. Leaders have developed a broad and ambitious curriculum. There is a purposeful atmosphere around school. Pupils say they can focus on their learning well. Teachers act on any disrupted learning quickly and address the issues effectively. During social times, most pupils behave very well. A small number of pupils use derogatory and inappropriate language. If incidents of poor language or behaviour do occur, leaders deal with them swiftly. Leaders are proud of the broad range of enrichment activities on offer. There are many clubs that pupils attend. These include coding, drama and philosophy. Many pupils, including disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), attend regularly. Some pupils recently enjoyed their visit to Twickenham to watch an England international rugby match. As part of their wider development, pupils are well supported to gain insight into a broad range of work and employment opportunities.

What the school should improve

• Some teachers do not consistently check what pupils understand and remember. This means that gaps in pupils' knowledge are not identified and addressed effectively. Leaders must ensure that teachers consistently check pupils' understanding at regular points and adapt their teaching accordingly to close any gaps in their learning.
• Some teachers do not provide pupils with sufficient opportunities to broaden their learning. This means that pupils miss opportunities to gain a deeper understanding of the subject. Leaders should ensure that all teachers continue to provide pupils with a range of learning activities that will expand learning and deepen understanding.
• Some disadvantaged pupils and those with SEND do not behave well enough during lessons. Too many are moved to other classes when this happens, which can disrupt the learning of others. Leaders must continue to raise expectations of behaviour throughout the school community to ensure that no learning is disrupted.

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