Woodbridge Road Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 3 June 2025

Many pupils join this school having previously had limited and sometimes difficult experiences of education. Due to the relentlessly positive and patient work of staff, and the high expectations of them, pupils make huge strides in their resilience and self- confidence. They increasingly feel happy at school. Pupils learn how to communicate their wants and needs and how to regulate their emotions. Pupils know that adults will support them exceptionally well if they need help. As a result, pupils substantially improve their attitudes to learning and their attendance during their time at the school. Teachers are aware of where pupils have gaps in their knowledge and experiences. They plan and ably teach the ambitious curriculum to fill these gaps. Consequently, pupils achieve well from their starting points as they engage with learning. The school offers a raft of carefully planned and high-quality opportunities for pupils to develop their teamwork and explore the world around them. Pupils in year 9 and above do work experience and take part in the Duke of Edinburgh award. Pupils also take part in sporting competitions, climbing and sailing activities. They grow vegetables in the school's garden and learn about how to keep themselves safe and healthy. Pupils also learn about other faiths. For example, by visiting a Buddhist temple. Pupils understand the importance of consent and how to use the internet safely. Pupils feel safe in school.

What the school should improve

• The school has not yet ensured that all staff consistently make activity choices that precisely meet the needs of pupils. When this happens pupils do not acquire the knowledge that they should. The school should build on its work to develop teachers' subject pedagogical knowledge, so they make consistently appropriate choices of activity for pupils.

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