Harris Academy Bermondsey

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is an outstanding school. Standards have been above average for some years. In 2014, students in Year 11 achieved broadly average results in the key measure of five or more good GCSE grades, including English and mathematics, but still made good or better progress.

Students' progress in English exceeds that expected nationally and continues to improve. Progress in mathematics and science is improving rapidly and now matches that seen in English. Students in all year groups are currently making better than the expected progress and their attainment is above average.

The most-able students, disabled students and those who have special educational needs make... excellent progress. Disadvantaged students do exceptionally well. Their attainment and progress matches and in some cases exceeds that of others in the academy.

It is markedly better than that of disadvantaged students in other schools. Teaching is highly effective. Work set captures students' interest and matches their needs precisely.

Teachers do not always give students enough time to think about their answers before responding to questions. The vast majority of teaching staff are swift to respond to the needs of any student who shows the slightest sign of falling behind. Behaviour is outstanding.

Students are eager learners who are keen to do their best. The academy works effectively to keep students safe. Students' personal development and their spiritual, moral, social and cultural development are excellent.

This gives them the confidence to thrive academically. Leadership and management are outstanding. Leaders promotion of improvements to teaching is exceptional.

Governors are knowledgeable about all aspects of provision and are great advocates for the academy's work.

Information about this school

This academy for girls is smaller than the average-sized secondary school. It is part of the Harris Federation.

The proportion of students entitled to the pupil premium (additional government funding to support students who are in the care of the local authority or who are known to be eligible for free school meals) is well above average. The majority of students come from minority ethnic groups, the largest of these being from African backgrounds. The percentage who speak English as an additional language is well above average.

The proportion of disabled students and those who have special educational needs or an education, health and care plan is above average. The proportion of students who join or leave the academy at other than the usual times is high. The academy currently has a very small number of students who are taught off site at Phoenix Place, Treasure House and YESS.

The academy closed its sixth form in 2014. This aspect of provision is being re-structured. It is planned to open again in September 2015 The academy meets the government's floor standards, which set the minimum expectations for students' attainment and progress.