The Ilfracombe Church of England Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 13 January 2026

Pupils recognise and appreciate the improved behaviour and support for their achievement at Ilfracombe Academy. Most pupils enjoy school and attend well. The school is a friendly place where pupils cooperate well with one another and feel safe. Pupils are supported to get off to a positive start each day. Staff welcome pupils and ensure that they have the equipment that they need. This helps to build a sense of belonging and ensures that pupils are ready to learn. Pupils are keen to do well. They listen attentively to staff and complete work that they are proud of. Disruption to learning is not tolerated. In lessons, pupils concentrate on their work. Outcomes in national examinations have improved significantly. Pupils increasingly gain the knowledge that they need to achieve well. Pupils who face barriers to their learning or wellbeing are usually well supported. They know that staff will try to help them to reduce barriers that they face. Teaching typically takes into account the needs of pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Although bullying is rare, a minority of pupils, parents and carers lack confidence in how leaders respond to it when instances occur. The broad offer of extra-curricular opportunities helps pupils to experience ‘life in all its fullness’. Opportunities include a range of sports and art activities and trips. For example, pupils recently proudly performed a play for local primary school children and visited Oxford University. Leaders ensure that pupils with SEND and those who are disadvantaged are supported to take part in these activities. Pupils learn the importance of taking responsibility for themselves and the impact that their actions have on others. They are taught about tolerance and respect. This helps to prepare them for life in modern Britain.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that the specific needs of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities are consistently provided for in lessons so that these pupils are supported to make the best possible progress through the curriculum.
• Leaders should further support pupils to improve their behaviour so that fewer pupils miss learning and accumulate gaps in knowledge when removed from lessons or are suspended from school.
• Leaders should ensure that incidents of bullying are dealt with quickly and effectively so that pupils, parents and carers have greater confidence that such incidents will not continue.

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