Walsall Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 17 March 2026

Walsall Academy prides itself that 'everybody is a somebody'. Pupils are known as individuals. The school takes considerable care in this. Barriers to learning or wellbeing are systematically identified and reduced. Pupils are happy, and enjoy coming to school to learn. In addition, leaders have embedded significant improvements to the curriculum and how it is taught. This means pupils learn well and achieve well in external examinations at the end of Year 11 and in the sixth form. Pupils are actively involved in the wider life of the school. This is especially the case for the many opportunities pupils have for their personal development. This includes a very extensive range of clubs, activities and trips. Some of these have a lasting impact for the pupils involved. The school's work in this area also includes extensive provision for the development of pupils' character. There is thoughtful support for their wellbeing. Pupils engage with this offer really well. This includes vulnerable pupils. Pupils' views and experiences are routinely checked, such as their wellbeing, through regular surveys. Pupils appreciate these many opportunities and take advantage of them. Pupils enjoy school. This helps them attend well. Pupils behave very well both in social times and in lessons. They understand that it is important to try their best. Bullying is not tolerated. The school ensures that pupils are very well prepared for life in modern Britain. This is also thanks to the significant provision for pupils to engage with student-led family conferences, culture days, mentoring programmes, and the wide-ranging careers programme.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should continue to develop the quality of teaching, including the consistency of checking for pupils' understanding.
• Leaders should continue their work to improve pupils' achievement, with a particular focus on English and mathematics.

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