Longsands Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 13 February 2024

Pupils have experienced a lot of change since the previous inspection. While much of this has been necessary, it has been unsettling for some pupils. Pupils' voice has not always been heard as well as it should, but this is improving. Pupils have increasing confidence that their opinions are heard. This supports them to feel happier. The school has high aspirations for what pupils learn. Pupils value the knowledgeable teachers who support them to achieve well. However, in the past, this has not always been the case. Leaders' actions to address weaknesses in teaching have ensured that pupils now achieve well in many subjects. Many pupils recognise improvements in behaviour that have occurred due to the school's actions. They feel safer and happier as a result. However, some do not. Some pupils still need further support to improve their behaviour to meet the school's expectations. Some pupils have concerns about the boisterous and disrespectful behaviour of some older pupils. Pupils are accepting of difference. They learn about this through a tailored programme of personal development. Pupils benefit from extensive sporting opportunities that are open to all. Beyond sport, sixth-form students value organisations such as the medical society, and support available for university applications. This prepares them well for their next steps.

What the school should improve

• Changes that have been made have not been supported by some parents, pupils and staff. This leads to feelings of frustration towards the school. The school needs to continue to ensure that all stakeholders receive clear and effective communication, so that they are well informed about the reasons why decisions are made and actions are taken.
• The school has not ensured that some pupils understand the impact of their behaviour. These pupils do not respond positively to the school's behaviour management processes to improve their behaviour. Some teachers do not apply the school's behaviour policy consistently. As a result, some pupils do not behave well enough. The school should continue its work to ensure that pupils get the support they need to modify their behaviour and ensure that all teachers apply the behaviour policy consistently, so that pupils behave well.
• Some teachers do not consistently implement the curriculum as the school intends. As a result, in these subjects, pupils do not secure important knowledge as well as they do in most other subjects. The school should ensure that the curriculum is taught consistently well in all subjects.

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