St Matthias Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 24 September 2024

Many pupils come to St Matthias Academy with negative experiences of education. However, the school swiftly transforms their attitudes, enabling them to engage with learning successfully. Pupils are very positive about the personalised support they receive from staff, particularly when they feel anxious. They feel safe and well cared for. Through the curriculum, pupils learn how to interact successfully with their peers and adults. Carefully structured routines enable pupils to learn without disruption. Pupils learn how to manage their emotional responses to situations around them and behave well. Pupils are kind, empathetic and respectful to others. Through the well-structured curriculum, pupils learn a range of subjects well. The daily reading focus enables pupils to improve their comprehension and understanding of a breadth of texts. Through reading, pupils are supported to reflect on the issues in their communities and the world beyond. Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) thrive through bespoke support for their social and emotional needs. Through carefully tailored approaches, pupils develop confidence and aspirations for their next steps. One parent's comment echoed the views of many: 'Since attending St Matthias, my child is like a different child - the staff are just amazing.'

What the school should improve

• The school does not consistently ensure that staff adapt the ways in which they teach some areas of the curriculum. Consequently, some pupils are not prepared well enough to apply their learning independently. The school must ensure that staff make appropriate adaptations so that pupils learn successfully in all subjects.

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