The Bulwell Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 12 May 2026

Pupils are proud to be a part of the Bulwell community. Leaders have made significant improvements to the school’s culture. Staff have high expectations. Most pupils behave well. This creates an environment that supports learning. Pupils' attendance has improved. This includes the attendance of disadvantaged pupils. Those who find regular attendance more difficult are successfully supported. Leaders identify any barriers pupils may have to their learning. Staff help them overcome these barriers with increasing success. Pastoral support is matched well to pupils’ needs. Pupils benefit from positive relationships with caring and committed staff. This ensures that they are known and celebrated as individuals. Pupils know how to report concerns about bullying. They trust that staff will follow the school’s procedures to resolve issues. As a result, pupils feel safe and cared for. Pupils do not achieve in line with national averages across the curriculum. Leaders have taken effective steps to improve the curriculum. These actions are beginning to make a positive difference to pupils’ learning. Leaders have introduced clear, consistent routines that help create purposeful classrooms. Pupils settle quickly into their lessons and are ready to learn. However, there are some inconsistencies in how effectively the curriculum is taught. This means that some pupils still do not make as much progress as they could. The Bulwell pledge passport encourages pupils to participate in a wide range of activities. Leaders ensure that disadvantaged pupils benefit from the wider offer, including participating in trips and extra-curricular activities. Pupils are proud of the leadership responsibilities they have, including acting as school councillors or peer mentors. Pupils can develop their confidence and resilience through opportunities such as The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme. They engage with the local community, including through the school's community hub. Pupils receive guidance and opportunities that prepare them increasingly well for their next steps.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should strengthen the quality of teaching across the curriculum so that pupils typically achieve well in national examinations.
• Leaders should ensure that pupils who have gaps in their basic knowledge and skills receive effective teaching and support to close these gaps.
• Leaders should continue to embed the attendance strategy to improve overall attendance. They should also make sure that their actions result in reducing persistent absence further for all pupil groups.

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