Lower Farm Academy

Overview

Lower Farm Academy is described as a "caring school where pupils feel happy and safe," with staff who "know the needs of their pupils well." The inspection found that pupils "enjoy their lessons" and show "enthusiasm and interest in their work," supported by leaders who are "committed and enthusiastic."

Strengths

• The curriculum is "well planned," particularly in subjects such as art and design and mathematics, ensuring pupils learn knowledge "in the right order."
• Pupils are "taught to read well," with teachers skilled in phonics and "swift and effective support" provided for those at risk of falling behind.
• Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities are "well supported" through "successful and carefully considered adaptations."
• Children in the early years make a "positive start," benefiting from "well organised" indoor and outdoor spaces.
• Staff feel that leaders "manage their workload well" and have created a "positive place to work."

Areas to improve

• In a few subjects, explanations or learning activities mean pupils’ knowledge is "not fully developed"; the school should "extend teachers’ subject knowledge and skills."
• Some subject leaders lack a "clear enough grasp" of performance in their areas, meaning immediate improvement steps are not always tackled effectively.

Safeguarding

The report states that "the arrangements for safeguarding are effective."