Ormiston Sir Stanley Matthews Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 27 June 2023

Pupils feel cared for in this inclusive school. Staff know their pupils well and support them to be the best they can be. The school's core values of confidence, resilience, enthusiasm, empathy, challenge, and kindness are rooted in the curriculum and beyond. Pupils are kind, respectful and feel safe at school. There are high expectations for pupils and most pupils live up to these. They behave well in lessons and at social times. However, some pupils do not meet the school's expectations and repeat unwanted behaviours. Leaders have not ensured that these pupils get the support they need. Many older pupils are role models for their younger peers. The reading mentors in Year 10 help younger pupils to gain the confidence to read fluently. The 'OAT student voice' group gathers views and take these to leaders to bring about change. They have introduced 'anti-bullying and well-being ambassadors' to encourage pupils to talk about their concerns. The extra-curricular programme has something for everyone. It includes badminton, a drum workshop, keyboard club, and chess club. There are also visits to Berlin, South Africa, and reward trips to theme parks. Many pupils take part, including pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).

What the school should improve

• Some teachers do not rectify the misconceptions that pupils may have or check how to support pupils who find the work too easy. This means that pupils do not consistently learn from their mistakes, nor do they enhance their knowledge. Leaders should ensure that all teachers use the assessment systems as intended and check that teachers are providing pupils with opportunities to consolidate their learning.
• Leaders have not ensured that the behaviour systems are having the desired impact for all pupils. Some pupils often repeat the same unwanted behaviours, which results in further sanctions being given. Leaders should ensure that they systematically analyse the information they collect about behaviour and use this carefully to review the way in which they manage behaviour. They should use this information carefully to consider the root causes of issues so that that the pupils get the support and intervention they need to improve their behaviours in line with the school's values.

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