Waterside Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 24 February 2026

Pupils receive a warm and friendly welcome each day. This helps them to feel secure and valued. They know that staff care deeply about their wellbeing because staff take time to build positive relationships with them. This encourages pupils to attend school regularly. Pupils show respect for one another and interact with kindness. They speak enthusiastically about the celebration assemblies and enjoy sharing each other’s successes. They look forward to it with genuine excitement. Bullying rarely happens, and if it does, staff address concerns quickly so that pupils continue to feel safe. Pupils enjoy their learning and talk confidently about the engaging activities that help them to stay focused. Many hold high aspirations and work hard. They understand how their efforts will influence their futures. Pupils respond to questions and instructions with enthusiasm and show a desire to learn. When pupils struggle with any aspect of learning, staff provide carefully planned support. This is put in place swiftly so that pupils do not fall behind. Pupils are well prepared for the next steps in their education. Pupils listen attentively to staff and to each other. This creates a calm atmosphere in lessons and around the school. At playtimes, pupils enjoy a wide range of activities and play cooperatively with their peers. Those who need help to manage their emotions receive timely and effective guidance. Older pupils value their leadership responsibilities and take pride in supporting younger children. This supports the inclusive culture of the school. Pupils benefit from a rich range of wider experiences, such as museum visits, residential trips and singing in well-known landmarks. These opportunities broaden their horizons and deepen their understanding of the world. Fundraising for local and national charities helps pupils learn to support others.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should refine checks on pupils receiving targeted support, including in the early years, so that support remains effective and timely.
• Leaders should develop how staff identify and address gaps in learning so that pupils make consistent and sustained progress.

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