Retford Oaks Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 10 May 2022

Pupils are proud to be part of Retford Oaks Academy. They know that staff will go 'above and beyond' to keep them safe. Pupils are encouraged to be 'dedicated to their learning' and to work hard and do well during lessons. The school's vision of 'we empower, we respect and we care' is part of pupils' daily life at school. Pupils know and understand that this vision will help them grow in confidence. They become well-rounded young people. Bullying is not tolerated at the school. Pupils say that when it happens, staff take it seriously and act swiftly to resolve any issues. Pupils are taught what bullying is and know how to report any concerns. The school's 'STOP' programme has ensured that pupils feel happy at the school. Most parents and carers agree that their children are safe at school. The behaviour of most pupils is good. Pupils are friendly and polite to each other. In lessons, pupils respond positively to their learning. Pupils behave well. Teachers deal effectively with any low-level disruption to learning. The majority of pupils enjoy their lessons. They appreciate the many opportunities that the school offers them, including trips. Pupils say that the school is 'hardworking' in its approach to helping them to develop personally and academically. Students in the sixth form appreciate the effective help and support they receive to prepare them for the next stage of their education, training or employment.

What the school should improve

• Pupils' behaviour around the school is not always to the same standard as it is during lessons. A few pupils who expressed a view feel that behaviour during social times needs to improve. Leaders should ensure that all pupils understand the importance of good behaviour, so that they demonstrate the same high levels of self-control in unstructured times, thus actively supporting the well-being of other pupils.
• Leaders are ambitious for pupils with SEND. However, the support these pupils receive across all subjects is inconsistent. The variability means these a few pupils' needs are not being met, resulting in gaps in their knowledge. Leaders must ensure that all teachers have the knowledge and skills they need to help these pupils to learn the intended curriculum.
• The intent and implementation of the curriculum are not fully effective in every subject. In a few subjects, pupils are not always provided with activities that can accelerate their learning and deepen their understanding. Leaders should ensure that curriculum plans and the delivery of the curriculum are equally ambitious in all subjects, so that all pupils know and remember more of what is taught.

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