Lakelands Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 9 June 2026

Pupils have a mixed experience at this school. Some pupils enjoy their learning and time at school. However, a significant minority of pupils do not. They say other pupils' behaviour disrupts their lessons. They say that staff are not always consistent when dealing with conduct issues. Generally, there are positive relationships between staff and pupils. In lessons, some pupils do not have a positive attitude to learning and do not complete work to a high enough standard. Most pupils behave well at break and lunchtimes. They socialise well together. Some pupils report that other pupils can be disrespectful toward one another. Staff typically deal with these issues effectively. When bullying occurs, it is addressed. Pupils, including disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), attend school well. Typically, the curriculum is taught effectively. Staff understand the barriers to learning that pupils have and typically address these well. On the whole, at key stage 4, pupils achieve in line with other pupils nationally, including disadvantaged pupils. They are well prepared for their next steps. Pupils who attend the specially resourced provision for pupils with SEND get high-quality teaching that meets their needs. Staff know these pupils' needs very well and are effective at addressing barriers to learning. They progress well from their starting points. There is a range of extra-curricular opportunities for pupils to take part in. More pupils are taking part in these than previously. Pupils enjoy taking part in the chess club, debating, choir and sports clubs. Some pupils also take part in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme. Some pupils are proud to take on leadership roles such as school 'senators', wellbeing ambassadors and reading buddies.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that the interventions they use with the small minority of pupils who disrupt lessons lead to improved behaviour for these pupils.
• Leaders should ensure that pupils develop positive attitudes to learning so that they complete work to the best of their ability.
• Leaders should ensure that the curriculum is taught consistently well across all subjects by ensuring that staff effectively implement the school's agreed approach to curriculum delivery.

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