Leigh Academy Rainham

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 27 February 2024

Pupils know that the school wants them to be the best they can be. They appreciate that staff have high expectations of them, which pupils rise to very well. The curriculum is interesting and ambitious. Pupils respond positively to their learning, working with focus, independence and resilience. Pupils treat each other and adults with respect. Kind, caring staff make sure that pupils are very clear on how to behave well. As a result, lessons are hardly ever disrupted. The school is very calm and orderly. Pupils behave maturely, with high levels of self-control. The school puts pupils' welfare and well-being at the forefront of its work. Pupils are taught about staying healthy, managing risk and healthy relationships. They are well-prepared for growing towards adulthood. Pupils feel confident to seek support should they need it. The school offers an extensive and very well considered personal development curriculum. The school values of 'dream, believe, achieve' underpin school life. Pupils are strongly encouraged to attend a wide range of clubs and activities, including many sports, music and debating. As part of the enrichment programme, pupils visit historical sites, theatres and foreign countries. These activities help turn classroom learning into reality. Pupils develop their character well through activities such as fundraising and the Duke of Edinburgh award.

What the school should improve

• Due to different levels of experience, a few teachers use less effective pedagogical strategies. This means that a small number of pupils do not always learn as well as they could across all subjects. The school should continue to provide high-quality training to ensure that all staff's pedagogical knowledge is equally effective.

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