The Priory Academy LSST

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 31 October 2023

The Priory Academy LSST has very high expectations of what all pupils can achieve. There is an aspirational culture in the school that is shared by staff and pupils. Pupils are challenged to be the best they can be. They rise to the challenge, and most achieve well. Beyond the academic, the school supports pupils' wider personal development exceptionally well. Pupils are very well prepared for their next steps in education and their future lives. The school provides a very broad range of extra-curricular activities. Many pupils take part in clubs that stretch their talents and interests in sport and creative arts. This includes disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). A large number of pupils are proud to be part of the Combined Cadet Force or achieve in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme. Sixth-form students enthusiastically take on responsibilities to support the school community. They proudly fulfil roles such as those of prefects and sports leaders. Many act as academic mentors to younger pupils. The vast majority of pupils demonstrate positive attitudes towards all aspects of school life. There is a strong pastoral system that supports pupils' well-being. Pupils say that they feel safe in the school. They trust that staff will provide support if they need it.

What the school should improve

• The implementation of the curriculum is not wholly consistent. In some lessons, routines are not firmly embedded for checking pupils' understanding or providing useful feedback to pupils. Sometimes, lessons are not adapted well enough to meet the needs of all learners. This means that pupils, including those with SEND, do not reliably learn new knowledge as securely as they might. The school needs to ensure that the ambitious curriculum is delivered consistently well.

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