Sandhill View Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 18 November 2025

Pupils appreciate the support and care that they receive. They grow to understand that staff want the best for them. Pupils feel safe. They turn to staff if they need a helping hand to resolve a problem or worry. As one pupil commented, 'No matter who you are, you get support at this school.' Pupils who are disadvantaged and pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities consistently benefit from high-quality support. For example, The Bridge, provides support to pupils who have missed large parts of the curriculum. They develop a powerful sense of belonging and progress socially and academically. One pupil's sentiment that, 'Everyone is equal in school. You can be yourself.' reflects the fact that equality is woven through school life. As pupils develop an understanding of the school's values and leaders' expectations, their behaviour improves. They respond positively to adults' skilled support and consistent application of routines. The warm welcome from staff, family breakfast and tutor periods set the positive tone each day. Pupils usually are polite and attentive in lessons. They behave well at social times. There is little bullying. Staff use established systems to manage pupils' behaviour should the need arise. Many pupils attend well. The lower attendance of some limits the extent to which they benefit from the care and opportunities that the school offers. Pupils enjoy what they study and develop positive attitudes to learning. They typically achieve well. This is reflected in their work and in their achievement in national assessments in recent years. Pupils remember what they study because teachers teach the curriculum effectively. Through the school's Aspire curriculum, pupils develop the confidence and resilience necessary to succeed in later life. They are keen to try their hand at one of the many clubs available to them. Drama is a particular favourite of many pupils.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should continue to review and adapt their wide range of strategies to improve pupils' attendance.
• Leaders should ensure that the reading curriculum supports pupils to secure the knowledge they need to be confident readers and communicators.

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