St Michael's Catholic Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 14 September 2022

St Michael's Catholic Academy is a caring and welcoming school. The religious ethos is evident throughout the school. Leaders seek to develop in pupils the school virtues, such as respect and compassion. Pupils are polite and courteous. There are harmonious relationships between staff and pupils. As a result, pupils feel safe and looked after. They know who to turn to if they need help and support. Most pupils do not think bullying happens often, but say that if it does, it is dealt with quickly. The anti-bullying initiative has a large number of pupil volunteers that work with the pupil leadership team on positive campaigns in the school. As a result, anti-bullying has a high profile in the school. Pupils are well behaved around the school. Lessons are calm and orderly. This creates a positive environment in the school. Staff demonstrate a consistent approach to managing routines. There are a small number of pupils who do not behave as well as expected. Leaders recognise this and have strategies in place to improve the behaviour of these pupils. Pupils benefit from a strong personal development curriculum. They take part in a range of extra-curricular activities to develop their interests, for example the musical theatre club and debating. Pupils also have opportunities to develop leadership qualities through recycling initiatives and projects about the importance of healthy relationships.

What the school should improve

• While there are clear curriculum plans, some teachers do not implement the curriculum consistently well or check on what pupils know effectively. As a result, some pupils do not gain strong knowledge of the most important curriculum content. Leaders should ensure that all teachers use assessment consistently and with purpose so that they are clear on what pupils know and remember, adapting future learning to meet each pupil's needs.
• Plans to support the weakest readers are in place but are in their infancy. Leaders must ensure that the reading plans are fully implemented, and that relevant staff receive training swiftly. This will support the weakest readers to confidently access the curriculum.
• Leaders do not sufficiently evaluate the information they collect or analyse management information in enough detail. There is more to do to ensure that staff are given the information they need to improve their work. Senior leaders should ensure that leaders at all levels have the right support to analyse, evaluate and share the information available effectively.

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