Boughton Heath Academy

Highlights from Latest Inspection

What is it like to attend this school?

Pupils enjoy coming to this exceptional school. They take full advantage of the wonderful opportunities that the school has to offer.

Pupils spoke particularly fondly about the annual residential visits. Every pupil is encouraged to develop their talents and to represent the school in a competition or festival. Pupils said that they value how these activities and memorable experiences help them to develop important skills such as determination, respect for others and confidence.

The school has extremely high expectations for pupils' achievement. This includes for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Pupils thrive and achieve exceptionally ...well, especially in English and mathematics.

Pupils also develop a deep body of knowledge across the curriculum.

Pupils' behaviour in and around school is exceptional. In lessons, pupils listen intently to their teachers.

Pupils show maturity beyond their years when they discuss their learning with their friends. Children in the early years show great focus during their play. Throughout the school, there is a calm and purposeful learning culture.

Pupils are exceedingly proud of their school. Many of the Year 6 pupils told inspectors that, although they were sad to be leaving such a remarkable school, they felt extremely well prepared for the next stage of their education.

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

Reading is given the highest priority across the school.

In the Reception class, children delight in joining in with their favourite books at story time, for example by playing the roles of the main characters. Expert staff ensure that pupils quickly learn the sounds and letters that they need to begin to read. If pupils struggle to learn their sounds, they receive helpful support to catch up quickly with their peers.

By the end of key stage 1, most pupils are fluent and accurate readers. Pupils of all ages love to read. They enjoy talking about their favourite books and authors.

The school has designed a highly ambitious curriculum which has been carefully reviewed and improved over time. Skilled staff design activities which ensure that pupils learn very well. For example, in the early years, staff select engaging resources which stimulate children's interests and fire their imagination.

Teachers regularly check how well pupils learn. This means that any errors or misconceptions are addressed quickly. Pupils, including those who are disadvantaged, achieve very well across the curriculum.

Pupils with additional needs are identified swiftly. Staff ensure that learning activities are adapted appropriately so that pupils with SEND access the same curriculum as their friends. A small number of pupils access support which is specifically tailored for their needs.

These pupils receive excellent care and guidance from staff who are very well trained.The school's approach to promoting pupils' personal development is extremely well thought out. Pupils enjoy joining a wide range of clubs such as gymnastics; choir; science, technology, engineering and mathematics and boys' and girls' football.

The way in which the school develops pupils' character is exceptional. Pupils develop important values such as independence and honesty. They demonstrate these traits in all that they do.

On the playground, pupils are exceptionally well behaved. Playtimes are a joyful experience where older pupils help younger pupils to play and learn new skills.

Pupils are encouraged to develop a sense of pride in making their school the best it can be.

For example, play leaders organise games on the playground for younger pupils. School council members played a pivotal role in shaping the school's three rules, 'work hard, get smart and be kind'. Pupils appreciate the way that staff support them to improve their mental health and well-being.

The school prioritises pupils' attendance. It takes effective action to support the small number of pupils who do not attend as well as they should. As a result, attendance rates are high.

Governors and trustees know the school very well. They are exceptionally well equipped to provide appropriate support and challenge. Governors are especially mindful of the importance of staff well-being.

Staff feel valued and reported that their workload is considered carefully. They enjoy working at the school.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.

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