The Welldon Park Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 13 June 2023

Pupils here are kind and friendly to each other. They form positive relationships with teachers and other adults. Indeed, they know that staff care genuinely about their well-being. Pupils enjoy school life. This is an inclusive school with a strong community spirit. Leaders have high expectations for all pupils. They know and understand pupils and their families well. Leaders work together with parents and carers to help pupils overcome any barriers to their achievement. Pupils respond well to leaders' expectations. They work hard in lessons and enjoy the trips and visits that enhance their learning. Pupils are taught how to be 'ready, respectful and safe'. They understand what these rules mean both in lessons and at break- and lunchtime. Pupils behave well. As they move through the school, they take increasing responsibility for their own actions. This is a calm and orderly school, and also a school where pupils can learn and have fun. Leaders provide pupils with opportunities to develop their talents and interests. Pupils take part in activities such as sports, dance, choir and gardening. In the older years, there are residential trips. Pupils here develop both their independence and their ability to work as part of a team.

What the school should improve

• Sometimes, teachers do not present new knowledge to pupils with enough clarity. At times, they do not check pupils' understanding systematically enough before moving on to the next stage of learning. This means that some pupils do not build up their knowledge in a secure and coherent manner. Leaders should ensure that teachers receive the pedagogical training and development they need to help pupils secure and deepen their knowledge and understanding of curriculum content.
• The proportion of pupils who are persistently absent from school is high. This is particularly an issue with regard to disadvantaged pupils. This means that a significant percentage of pupils are missing too much of their education. Leaders should ensure that they review their current approach to persistent absence and adopt a more rigorous and effective strategy to reduce the level of persistent absence.

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