A newly-formed Nottingham academy has received a 'requires improvement' rating after its first inspection by Ofsted. Wells Academy, which opened in Mapperley in September 2020 after a demerger from Nottingham Academy, was visited by inspectors last month.
A report said the school had high expectations of pupils and an "ambitious" curriculum. However it pointed out gaps in learning are not always addressed and pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) did not always have their needs met in lessons.
The school's principal George Coles, who took on the position in January, said he was "really pleased" with some of the positive points highlighted by the inspection. "The positive feedback acknowledges and reaffirms the steps we have already taken, and will continue to take, through our Academy Improvement Plan," he said.
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“I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank our wonderful community of pupils, colleagues and families for their ongoing support and hard work." The 715-pupil academy, which is part of the Greenwood Academies Trust, received a 'requires improvement' rating in all areas except one - personal development which was rated 'good'.
Ofsted said some inconsistencies remain in the delivery of the curriculum and how staff manage behaviour. "Gaps in learning and misconceptions are not always addressed," it said.
"This means that some pupils do not progress well through the curriculum and do not achieve as well as they could." Inspectors added that pupils with SEND do not always have their needs met in lessons.
"This means that some pupils cannot access the curriculum and do not achieve as well as they could. Leaders should ensure that teachers understand the needs of all pupils with SEND and implement the agreed strategies to meet these pupils’ needs."
However, they said that most pupils say they enjoy school and feel safe. Ofsted also said most pupils are respectful to each other and to staff.
In the report, inspectors found that “leaders have high expectations of what pupils can achieve, including pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND)” and that it has developed a “strong culture of safeguarding in the school”. The report also states that the academy is “an inclusive and diverse school” and that leaders ensure “all pupils feel included”.
Additionally, inspectors noted that “leaders have ensured that there is an ambitious and well-sequenced curriculum in place for all subjects”. Wayne Norrie, chief executive of Greenwood Academies Trust, said: “Since taking up his position as Principal, Mr Coles has introduced a number of successful initiatives to further support our pupils, colleagues and families at The Wells Academy, and I am so proud to see the positive ground that has been, and will continue to be, gained under his strong leadership.
“Of course, as always, there is still room for improvement, but I am confident that with the continued support of the Trust, the academy will continue build on this positive trajectory and ensure all pupils are empowered with the knowledge, confidence and skills to thrive.”
