Unity Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 7 November 2023

Pupils attend a range of off-site provisions for their education. They usually study at one or two settings that are carefully chosen to help pupils re-engage with their education. Staff have high expectations of pupils. Most pupils gain qualifications in English and mathematics and other academic and vocational subjects. Their time at Unity Academy helps pupils to move on to purposeful destinations when they leave. Pupils behave well in lessons and within the various settings. Staff manage pupils' behaviour skilfully and teach them how to conduct themselves in different situations. Staff and pupils enjoy positive and productive relationships. Most pupils have much better attendance at Unity Academy than they did at previous schools. Staff use a range of strategies to help to promote regular attendance. However, some pupils are still absent too often. There are clear procedures in place to help pupils stay safe. They all have trusted adults to talk to if they have any concerns. Pupils are confident that staff would deal with any problems that they may have. Pupils feel safe in the settings. They learn about local, national and international safeguarding issues that help them to make informed choices about reducing risk.

What the school should improve

• Some pupils are absent too often. This means that they do not receive the good- quality education that Unity Academy provides. The school should continue to work with pupils, families, outside agencies and providers to remove barriers to regular attendance.
• Not all pupils access the rich experiences that promote personal development across the providers. Consequently, some pupils miss opportunities to broaden their horizons. Unity Academy should monitor and track the various activities and ensure that all pupils experience a wide range of activities that promote personal development.

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