Shireland Collegiate Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 15 October 2024

Respectful, caring and supportive relationships are at the heart of this school. An overwhelming sense of community and mutual respect greets you as you arrive. Pupils say that they are happy in school and value the opportunities to support each other. Pupils understand and follow the school's mission to 'aim higher, see further, be concerned'. Pupils are safe and say that poor behaviour is rare. The school sets very high expectations for pupils' academic achievements and their wider development. Staff focus well on helping pupils to meet these high standards. Pupils appreciate their teachers and know that they want them to be successful in their learning. As a result, in most subjects, pupils achieve well, including pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). The school works exceptionally hard to give all pupils an extensive range of employment, cultural and leadership experiences. This includes sixth-form work experience in Dubai. As a 'school of sanctuary', it has opened its doors to young people who arrive new to the area. The support from all pupils and staff towards these new arrivals is exceptional. Pupils extend their talents through a range of clubs and activities, such as sports and the performing arts as well as debating and coding clubs.

What the school should improve

• Teachers do not consistently check that all pupils understand and remember what they have learned in some subjects. As a result, they do not always address misconceptions, so some pupils have gaps in their learning in those subjects. The school should ensure that teachers' checks on pupils' understanding are effective across all subjects, so that they can support pupils to learn as well as the school intends them to.

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