The Hazeley Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 13 February 2024

Pupils are very happy at this inclusive school. They greet visitors cheerfully in the corridor and treat each other with respect and kindness. The school has successfully created a caring culture based on strong routines, excellent relationships, recognition of success and restorative practice. This is highly evident and means that pupils feel extremely safe. Staff have high expectations of all pupils, including pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Pupils rise to these expectations and work hard. The house system helps to promote a sense of belonging. Purposefully designed activities foster strong relationships between staff and pupils. For example, the highly cherished transition event, the 'Hazeleyfest', includes crucial team-building activities and it is where pupils forge long-lasting friendships with their peers. Everyone participates in activities designed to develop character. For example, all pupils relish the opportunity to take part in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme. Pupils benefit from expert pastoral care. 'Return 2 Learn' mentors intervene proactively to support pupils' learning and behaviour effectively. The school does not tolerate bullying. Pupils learn how to recognise and distinguish unkind behaviour from bullying. Pupils relish the opportunity to be anti-bullying ambassadors. They confidently champion their strategy in assemblies and in local feeder primary schools.

What the school should improve

• Sometimes, teachers do not systematically check gaps in pupils' knowledge, skills and understanding. This means that some staff do not consistently adapt their teaching to support pupils' learning as well as they could. The school needs to ensure that teachers further refine their practice to accurately identify what pupils know and can do and adapt their teaching to address misconceptions or close any gaps.

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