St Stephens Community Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 3 July 2024

The school has created a close-knit community that gives all pupils a sense of belonging. Pupils are fiercely proud of their school. The school ensures that every pupil participates in activities that broaden their horizons. This means that there is a buzz of optimism and aspiration. Pupils develop a strong sense of their place in the world and how they can contribute positively. They are effective advocates for themselves and others. The school has high expectations of what pupils can achieve. Children in the early years get off to an exceptionally strong start. Most pupils achieve well because the curriculum is well-planned. The school has a sharp focus on reading. Many pupils read for pleasure. Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are effectively supported by highly skilled staff. The school's pastoral care is exceptional. Pupils' voices are heard. They value the warm and respectful relationships they have with staff. Pupils feel happy and safe. They are confident that should bullying occur, staff will deal with it quickly and fairly. The school's three rules are well-understood by all. Pupils display excellent manners.

What the school should improve

• In a few areas, the implementation of the curriculum is not consistently strong. In these areas, disciplinary knowledge is not carefully designed, and teaching does not use assessment effectively to check learning within lessons. As a result, pupils' depth of understanding and retention of knowledge is too variable. The trust must ensure that the curriculum is implemented robustly and consistently so that all pupils learn effectively and remember what they have learned

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