Robert Barclay Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 7 March 2023

Pupils like their school, and they feel part of 'a family'. They know that their teachers have high expectations for their behaviour and learning. Pupils are safe because adults care passionately about pupils' mental and physical well-being. If pupils have a concern, they seek help from an adult. Pupils behave well. They listen attentively to their teachers and other pupils. Pupils interact positively in and out of lessons. Bullying is rare. Should bullying occur, teachers will swiftly resolve it. Pupils are respectful to each other, to adults and to visitors in the school. They are open-minded and welcome people who are different to them. Pupils learn about other world religions. They do not tolerate any prejudicial comments. Pupils are well prepared for life in multicultural Britain and the wider world. Pupils enjoy learning. They participate enthusiastically in lessons. Their teachers explain ideas clearly and help them when they do not understand. Students in the sixth form are positive role models. They contribute well to the life of the school. Students look out for younger pupils. They support them with their reading and mathematics. Parents are overwhelmingly positive about the quality of education the school provides for their children. They acknowledge how the school has improved since the last inspection.

What the school should improve

• Participation in extra-curricular activities is low, particularly among pupils with SEND and those in receipt of pupil premium. As a result, many pupils do not have the opportunity to hone further artistic, sporting and musical skills. Leaders should develop willingness among pupils to participate in these activities and consider a broader range of extra-curricular activities.
• Although increasing, the number of pupils taking languages at key stage 4 remains low. As a result, many pupils are not gaining an important life skill. The number of pupils achieving the EBacc is therefore significantly below the national average. Leaders need to formulate precise plans to increase the number of pupils studying languages as they move into key stage 4.

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