The St Lawrence Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 16 June 2026

A strong sense of inclusion and diversity runs through the school. Everyone is welcome. The school serves a very diverse community. Pupils from 28 different nationalities attend. The school values of respect, truth, generosity, forgiveness and justice are understood by the pupils. The majority of pupils enjoy coming here. They form positive and trusting relationships with adults in the school. As a result, pupils feel safe. Pupils generally achieve well. A large number of pupils are eligible for pupil premium funding. A significant number of pupils start the school with attainment below their peers nationally. These pupils, and pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, make good progress from their starting points. This achievement is not always represented in published outcomes at the end of key stage 4 because of pupils' low starting points. Pupils are typically well prepared for their next steps. Pupils behave very well across the school. They demonstrate the values of respect and generosity towards each other. Bullying and harassment are rare and dealt with effectively. Classrooms are purposeful. Most pupils engage positively with and enjoy their learning. Leaders have created a sense of belonging in the school. This begins at the start of the school day where positive pupil achievements are celebrated in year group 'line ups'. Pupils' attendance is improving quickly and is now close to national averages. A large number of pupils take part in pupil leadership opportunities. The pupil leaders make a meaningful contribution to school life and in doing so develop their confidence and teamwork skills. For example, the collective worship leaders lead their form groups in the act of daily worship. Other pupil leaders, such as the wellbeing ambassadors and the prefects, act as role models and contribute positively to daily school life.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that pupils develop detailed knowledge and skills across the curriculum and that this achievement is reflected in national tests.
• Leaders should continue their work to ensure that the curriculum is delivered consistently well and that teachers consistently identify and address any gaps in knowledge.
• Leaders should continue their work to improve pupils’ attendance so that pupils' attendance continues to increase.

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