King James Academy Royston

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 23 April 2024

The school has high expectations for pupils' achievement and behaviour. Staff work hard to make these ambitions a reality. Pupils respect each other and have a strong understanding of people with different backgrounds and beliefs. They know the school's rules and how to behave well. Relationships between pupils and with staff are typically positive. Pupils are considerate of each other's well-being. Most pupils enjoy school and attend regularly. They feel safe because of the care staff take to help them with any problems that they might have. The majority of pupils approach their learning enthusiastically and aim high. Pupils' aspirations and wider development are supported through strong provision. A comprehensive programme of careers education and advice, including in the sixth form, ensures that pupils are well prepared for the future. Opportunities for pupils to develop leadership skills and positive character traits are of high quality, including through roles such as sports leaders, being members of the student council and participating in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme. In addition to a range of trips for pupils throughout the year, including residentials, trips abroad and visits to the theatre and museums, pupils have access to a breadth of extra-curricular activities. Some of these are organised and led by pupils with support from staff.

What the school should improve

• At times, teachers' strategies to engage pupils in their learning are not as effective as they could be, including for pupils with SEND. When this happens, pupils do not consistently develop really deep understanding and achieve highly. The school should tighten up teaching approaches further, including how pupils' learning is assessed, so that the standards pupils achieve continue to rise. and

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