The Sir John Colfox Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 12 September 2023

Pupils at Sir John Colfox value the strong relationships they have with adults in the school. They feel safe and know that if bullying happens, staff will resolve it. Pupils talk proudly about the range of extra-curricular opportunities available to them. The house events and competitions are particularly popular. Staff ensure that all pupils take part. They encourage pupils to try something new. Pupils, including those in the sixth form, enjoy learning from visiting speakers. In most subjects, pupils are learning from a well-planned curriculum. The school has ensured that what pupils learn is more than just preparation for examinations. Recent changes to the curriculum reflect the school's ambition for its pupils to achieve more highly. Pupils learn about the wider world and other cultures. Pupils at the school enjoy reading and talk enthusiastically about books they have read. Most pupils behave very well. They are polite and attentive. A small number of pupils do not yet meet the school's expectations. The school is taking effective action to ensure all pupils can learn in calm and orderly classrooms. Pupils are confident that poor behaviour is addressed.

What the school should improve

• The new behaviour policy is not always implemented effectively by all staff. As a result, a small number of pupils continue to disrupt lessons. The school and the trust must ensure they support all staff to apply the policy consistently and fairly, so all pupils can learn effectively.
• High expectations of pupils are not shared by all staff. As a result, attitudes towards learning and the quality of pupils' work are not consistently high. The school and the trust should provide clarity to staff about the standards they expect from pupils.

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