Freebrough Academy

Overview

Pupils at Freebrough Academy receive an “exceptional education” where “academic success and strength of character are of equal importance.” Leaders have “transformed the school” since joining the multi-academy trust, establishing a culture defined by “kindness, tolerance and respect.” The inspection highlights significant improvements in the quality of education and personal development, with staff and pupils sharing “strong relationships.”

Strengths

• The curriculum is described as “exceptional” and “very ambitious,” with leaders carefully planning content to ensure pupils retain important knowledge.
• Staff are “passionate, skilled and knowledgeable,” using targeted questioning and effective assessment to address gaps in pupils’ understanding quickly.
• Personal development is a “standout feature,” with pupils engaging enthusiastically in volunteering, fundraising, and a wide range of extra-curricular activities.
• Support for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) is high-quality, including a specialist provision for autism spectrum disorder.
• Leaders provide high-quality professional development, resulting in staff who are “happy, fulfilled” and proud of their work.

Areas to improve

• Leaders should continue efforts to improve the attitudes to learning and behaviour of a “small minority of pupils” who do not aspire to meet expectations, as this sometimes disrupts learning.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are “effective,” with knowledgeable leaders, well-trained staff, and “extremely thorough” records ensuring pupils receive the right support at the right time.