Havelock Academy

Overview

Havelock Academy is described as a "welcoming school where pupils are respectful" and where staff "care deeply about the community." Leaders have created an environment of which "everyone is proud," with a curriculum designed to be "ambitious for all pupils." The report notes that while the school has improved from its previous rating, some strategies require further refinement to demonstrate full impact.

Strengths

• Teachers deliver "engaging" lessons using the ‘Havelock Way’ structure, helping pupils acquire necessary skills and knowledge.
• There is a "sharp focus" on reading, with effective strategies helping pupils who have fallen behind to "catch up quickly."
• Systems for identifying and supporting pupils with special education needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are "strong," enabling teachers to adapt the curriculum effectively.
• The professional development programme is "effective," with leaders supporting new teachers "exceptionally well."
• Bullying is "rare," and when it occurs, leaders deal with it "swiftly and effectively."

Areas to improve

• Teachers must provide more opportunities for pupils to develop and use "subject-specific vocabulary" confidently across all subjects.
• Leaders need to ensure systems for tracking and managing poor attendance are "robust," as some pupils do not attend regularly.
• The curriculum must provide regular opportunities for pupils to develop understanding of "fundamental British values" and the "diversity of world religions."

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are "effective," with a "forensic approach" adopted by all leaders and staff who are well trained to identify vulnerable pupils and act swiftly on concerns.