Kingsbridge Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 7 March 2023

Pupils attending Kingsbridge Academy benefit from a good education. Leaders are highly ambitious for all pupils. Pupils enjoy their lessons and their learning. Sixth- form students contribute widely to the life of the school. Younger pupils describe sixth-form students as role models. Leaders have high expectations for pupils' behaviour. Pupils say they have a trusted adult they can speak to when they have concerns. Some pupils and parents express concerns about bullying. However, when pupils report an incident, leaders deal with it. Pupils learn about bullying through a well-planned curriculum. As a result, incidents of bullying have reduced. Sixth-form students passionately lead the newly formed house system. They speak enthusiastically with pupils and school leaders. Pupils feel listened to. For example, the introduction of a skateboarding club followed a request from pupils. A wide range of extra-curricular clubs run for pupils. Clubs include sports, arts, board games and climbing. Through the 'discovery curriculum', leaders frequently talk to pupils and check who takes part. This helps leaders to understand what is going well and how to ensure all pupils benefit. Many pupils performed in a recent school musical production. Having two casts over four nights increased the number of pupils who could take part.

What the school should improve

• Implementation of the early reading programme is not systematic or accurate enough. As a result, a few pupils in the early stages of learning to read do not make the quick progress they need to catch up with their peers. Leaders need to ensure up-to-date and effective training for staff to implement the programme.
• The quality of communication between school and parents is inconsistent. This sometimes leads to a breakdown in understanding and engagement, which parents find frustrating. Leaders need to manage communication with parents effectively.

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