Gothic Mede Academy

Overview

Gothic Mede Academy continues to be a good school, where pupils are proud, motivated, and behave well in a friendly environment. Leaders have established a clear, ambitious vision with a well-considered curriculum that supports high-quality education for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities.

Strengths

• Pupils are "proud of their school" and "speak confidently about their work," demonstrating strong motivation and respect for others.
• The curriculum is "well-considered" with knowledge organised in a "logical order," helping pupils build on previous learning and apply it independently.
• Leaders "prioritise reading" with a "well planned" approach to phonics, ensuring most pupils learn to read well and books are carefully matched to their abilities.
• Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities are "included in all aspects of school life" and receive effective support to meet individual needs.
• Bullying is "rare" and dealt with effectively, while staff are alert to signs of risk and report concerns swiftly.

Areas to improve

• The current behaviour policy does not include strategies used to manage the behaviour of a few pupils, causing confusion and inconsistent application by staff.
• Leaders should ensure all staff understand the approach to promoting good behaviour and that the policy is used consistently and matches the strategies being utilised.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with staff alert to risks, concerns reported swiftly, and regular checks ensuring robust procedures.