The Lea Valley Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 5 October 2022

Pupils at The Lea Valley Academy are friendly and respectful. They belong to an inclusive school community whose diversity they celebrate. Leaders have created a school culture that is helping pupils to develop into confident young adults. Pupils here learn to take responsibility for their own actions. Leaders encourage pupils to aspire to great things. They want pupils to succeed. Teachers show a commitment to the pupils. They care about them and help them to improve their work. Pupils listen to their teachers and work hard in lessons. Staff have high expectations of pupils. Pupils meet these expectations most of the time. They behave well. Leaders do not tolerate bullying. When it does happen, they deal with it effectively. Pupils know that there is always an adult for them to speak to, should the need arise. They are safe here. Trips and visits to London landmarks and museums are a feature of life at this school. Pupils lead assemblies, for example on Black History Month, and there is an active student council. Pupils can develop their talents and interests here, from music and drama, to sports and quilling. Pupils enjoy these aspects of their education.

What the school should improve

• Some teachers do not adapt their teaching effectively, based on the responses they receive from pupils. They do not seek to understand why some pupils have not grasped essential knowledge and ideas and they move on to the next stage of learning too quickly. This means that some pupils do not secure the essential knowledge and understanding required to progress to more complex tasks. Leaders should ensure that teachers receive training and development to enable them to adapt their teaching to meet pupils' needs.

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