Academy bags good Ofsted rating amid praise for curriculum and opportunities

A west Suffolk school has bagged a good Ofsted rating following a recent inspection.

Following a visit that took place on May 1 and 2, the education watchdog confirmed Mildenhall College Academy, based at The Hub in Sheldrick Way, has retained its good grade previously awarded in 2018 and 2015.

The school, part of Academy Transformation Trust, was praised for its wide range of clubs, including chess and singing, as well as its "increasingly ambitious curriculum" which is "often well taught" with support where needed.

A report, published by Ofsted on June 13, said the school site had a "calm and friendly" atmosphere.

Inspectors found if adaptations are needed, including for SEND pupils, they are provided quickly. They said pupils, including those with SEND, achieve highly.

Teachers were described as "skilled" in supporting pupils' literacy in lessons and inspectors said teachers across different subjects used a range of strategies to help pupils understand and use key vocabulary.

The report stated the school has identified an "increase in challenging behaviour" amongst some pupils and a new behaviour policy was implemented as a result.

They wrote: "Where staff apply the behaviour policy as the school intends, pupils’ behaviour is impressive."

However, they continued: "A minority of teachers do not have high enough expectations for how pupils should behave.

"Some teachers allow too much disruption to learning, particularly in key stage 3.

"Pupils and parents find this disappointing as they believe it negatively impacts upon how well some pupils achieve and enjoy their lessons."

Leaders were praised for their 'robust' approach to tackling persistent absenteeism.

Praise was also given to the curriculum that supports student's personal development including ‘morning meetings’ and ‘skills for life’ lessons where pupils cover topics like managing finances, healthy relationships, and respect.

Trips to develop student's interest, including to the Tower of London, a skiing trip to Italy and a visit to Belgium’s battlefields, were described as popular.

Inspectors said to improve the school should make sure all areas of the curriculum are well planned and staff are appropriately deliver to teach them.

They also said leaders should "ensure that all staff have high expectations for how all pupils should behave" and that they follow the academy’s behaviour policy as intended.

The school was rated good so will continue to be visited by Ofsted once every four years.