Sidney Stringer Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 8 February 2023

This is a vibrant and inclusive school. The school's 'DRIVE' values shine through all that is done here. Leaders and teachers show great determination in their work, while pupils develop a profound respect for individual difference. Everyone is accepted for who they are. One pupil's comment, which captured the views of many, was, 'I feel comfortable here because I can just be me, and proud of who I am in my own skin.' Leaders pay a great deal of attention to pupils' safety and well-being. Because of this, pupils feel safe and well supported here. Pupils build strong, positive relationships with their teachers and their peers. Leaders are working tirelessly to achieve this aim for all. There is a culture of mutual respect between staff and students. Leaders have nurtured this carefully following the considerable disruption faced because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Pupils value this and know who to turn to should they have a concern. Staff take swift action to resolve any incidents of bullying that occur. Leaders have created a culture where personal growth is of the utmost importance. Academic success is highly valued here too. In lessons, pupils focus on their work. Pupils, and particularly those in the sixth from, develop into curious learners who show real determination in their learning.

What the school should improve

• In key stage 3, across some areas of the curriculum, pupils do not have the opportunity to study the subject in the depth that they might. Where this happens, pupils miss out on knowledge that might be important for their next steps in education. Leaders should ensure that pupils have the opportunity to study each subject in sufficient depth.
• In some subjects, assessment is not consistently used precisely enough to identify the next steps that pupils need to take in their learning. As a result, teaching is not always precisely planned or delivered to move pupils on in their learning, and they do not achieve as well as they might. Leaders should refine the way in which pupils' learning is assessed in order to maximise their progress over time.

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