The Sir Donald Bailey Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 20 June 2023

Each morning leaders are on hand, at the gate, to welcome the pupils into school. They take this opportunity to check how pupils are feeling and alleviate any worries that pupils or their parents and carers might have. Pupils feel safe and happy. Pupils enjoy attending this school. Teachers have high expectations of what pupils will achieve and grow to become. One pupil summed up the view of many when he said, 'We learn great things at this school.' Pupils engage well in their studies. They enjoy learning the school's ambitious curriculum. Pupils describe the school as a kind place. Teachers develop pupils to be accepting and respectful. Pupils know that falling out sometimes happens, but they equally describe how teachers sort this out quickly. The school is at the heart of its community. The weekly 'reading cafe' is an opportunity for parents and pupils to read together. This both supports pupils to develop a love for reading and helps leaders engage with families. Many parents hold positive views of the school. Many reflected on how supportive they feel the school is. One commented that staff have 'moved mountains' to help their child achieve well.

What the school should improve

• In a few foundation subjects, the essential knowledge that pupils need to know is not yet well identified. Pupils do not always learn this well enough to understand larger concepts or produce high-quality pieces of work in these subjects. Leaders should ensure that this essential knowledge is identified so that teachers can help pupils remember it.
• In some subjects, assessment is not precise enough to ensure that pupils have learned the intended curriculum. Some pupils have gaps in their knowledge which are not addressed. Leaders must ensure that teachers check that pupils have learned the intended curriculum consistently well in all subjects.

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