Ark Bolingbroke Academy

Highlights from Latest Inspection

What is it like to attend this school?

Pupils, and students in the sixth form, are exceptionally well supported to succeed at Ark Bolingbroke Academy. The shared ambition for pupils to approach school with 'courage, compassion, community and excellence' at its core is fully realised.

Staff have very high expectations of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). The school has designed a broad and ambitious curriculum. As a result, pupils develop secure subject knowledge, which results in very strong examination results in a wide range of GCSE and A level subjects.

Pupils' behaviour and conduct is exemplary. Pupils are polite and courteous. They have highly posit...ive attitudes and behave well in lessons.

Pupils are happy and kept safe in school.

The school provides a wide range of opportunities to develop pupils' character. These include fundraising activities, the Duke of Edinburgh award, acting as pupil ambassadors and being representatives in the student senate.

Students in the sixth form quickly develop as independent learners. They are encouraged to take on leadership responsibilities and to act as role models, for example, by acting as mentors for younger pupils and volunteering in the local community.

What does the school do well and what does it need to do better?

Subject leaders have thought carefully about the curriculum content and the order in which it is taught.

They are clear about what they want pupils to know and remember. The curriculum demonstrates high ambition for all pupils and is designed to build on knowledge progressively over time. Pupils frequently revisit prior learning at the start of the lesson.

This helps them to remember important knowledge. Pupils are highly proficient in recalling what they have previously learned.

Consistently high-quality teaching from staff who are experts in their subjects means pupils develop a deep understanding of the subject content.

Teachers carefully check pupils' understanding of what has been taught, picking up on and addressing misconceptions. They use their expertise to introduce and model new knowledge and techniques. Pupils practise using this new knowledge.

Pupils use the feedback and guidance that teachers provide to further improve their work.

Pupils with SEND access the same ambitious curriculum as their peers. They achieve highly because their teachers know their individual needs and apply effective strategies to support them.

When necessary, they adapt tasks skilfully, so that all pupils produce high-quality work.

The school understands the vital importance of reading. Pupils benefit from a well-stocked library that is an inspiring and welcoming space.

Staff regularly check how well pupils can read. When pupils need additional help to read well, they receive effective support. This helps them become fluent and accurate readers.

High-quality careers guidance is provided throughout the school, ensuring pupils are well informed about their next steps. Students in the sixth form receive appropriate support with university and degree apprenticeship applications. Sixth-form students are proud role models and make a highly positive contribution to the school and local community.

The school has exceptionally high expectations of pupils' behaviour. Routines and expectations are in place which lead to a calm and purposeful learning environment. Pupils are supportive and considerate of each other.

They are taught how to show respect for different opinions and listen to the views of others. Pupils are focused, engaged and participate well in lessons. Attendance is high and leaders are focused on improving this still further.

Pupils are punctual and persistent absence is low. The school ensures that pupils know why it is important to attend school every day.

The wider personal development of pupils is a considerable strength of the school.

Pupils study a carefully crafted curriculum that prepares them well for life in modern Britain. They learn about tolerance and diversity in their morning 'civitas' sessions. Assemblies and external speakers support this.

Pupils can choose from a high-quality range of enrichment opportunities, such as chess, choir, cross-fit and a selection of sporting clubs. These are very well attended by pupils, including disadvantaged pupils and those with SEND.

Staff benefit from high-quality professional development.

Early careers teachers receive excellent support. All staff are well informed about appropriate safeguarding procedures and systems for reporting concerns are well understood. Pupils learn about physical and online safety and the school has a proactive approach to mental health.

Trustees, governors and leaders are highly skilled and knowledgeable in their roles. They share the same clear strategic vision. Leaders work proactively with staff to ensure they are supported in their workload and well-being.

Staff are extremely positive about this support. Parents are effusive about the school.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.