Westlands Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 18 November 2025

Pupils at Westlands Academy thrive because of targeted care and a positive culture of inclusion. Every pupil faces unique challenges. Most pupils have an education health and care plan for social, emotional and mental health. Pupils attend regularly and succeed because staff act quickly to remove barriers. For many pupils, the school is a safe haven, a place where they feel secure and belong. Bullying is rare. The curriculum helps pupils understand risks and consequences in the wider world. For example, pupils discuss the impact of knife crime with trusted adults. These conversations build empathy, understanding and confidence to explore ideas. Staff create a positive learning environment that helps pupils to achieve well. Clear routines and respectful relationships support pupils to meet high expectations for their behaviour and progress through the curriculum. Although pupils generally achieve well, there are some occasions where key knowledge is not revisited systematically enough. Some pupils struggle to retain their learning over time. Pupils take pride in their achievements. They enjoy rewards assemblies and earning ‘Westies’ to spend in the school 'tuck shop'. They collect points to access enrichment activities at the end of the week. The school's systems help pupils develop their character and aim high in their learning. Pupils leave school with qualifications beyond their initial expectations. Despite challenges, most pupils are ready for their next steps in education, employment or training. The school shapes the curriculum around pupils’ aspirations and local labour market needs. Subjects such as construction and hospitality are popular choices. The personal development programme is effective and includes enrichment built into the school day. Pupils are beginning to play a role in their community, including organising a local food bank.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that teaching provides more opportunities for pupils to systematically revisit prior learning across the curriculum and to practise this learning to secure their long-term understanding.
• Leaders should strengthen their analysis of pupils’ participation in the personal development programme to ensure that all pupils benefit fully from an extensive, tailored range of experiences.

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