The Axis Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 21 March 2023

The Axis Academy is a warm and nurturing place. Pupils are happy and feel safe here. Every morning they are welcomed into school and given a chance to settle in. Leaders and staff have high expectations of every pupil. Pupils behave well and try their best in lessons. Pupils achieve well overall. Pupils who come to this school have often missed a lot of education. Staff foster positive relationships with pupils. Pupils told inspectors that they feel valued and cared for by staff. This helps them to re-engage with their education. Pupils respond positively to the clear routines set by staff. Pupils learn to trust staff. They value the help they receive to manage their feelings. On the very rare occasions when bullying occurs, staff deal with it effectively. Pupils benefit from a wide range of activities, such as sports, trips and outdoor learning. These help them to develop their confidence and self-esteem. They develop leadership skills through, for example, refereeing football during breaktimes and participating in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme. Pupils are well prepared for life beyond school.

What the school should improve

• In a small number of subjects, leaders are in the process of defining exactly what pupils should learn and in what order it should be taught. This is hindering some pupils from learning as well as they could. Leaders should ensure that they refine the curriculum further to identify the important content that pupils should be taught.
• Some pupils do not attend school regularly. Consequently, they miss valuable learning time, which negatively impacts on their achievement. Leaders should continue to support these pupils and their families to improve attendance.

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