Notton House Academy

Overview

Notton House Academy is a specialist setting for pupils with social, emotional and mental health needs. The report describes a school where leaders provide a "broad and balanced curriculum" and "high-quality professional learning" for staff, resulting in pupils who feel safe and are well prepared for adulthood. While personal development is rated at a "strong standard," most other aspects meet the "expected standard."

Strengths

• The "extensive personal development and wellbeing programme" is a key strength, with a "highly effective" pastoral offer that fosters a sense of belonging.
• "Preparation for adulthood and future pathways" is praised, featuring tailored careers guidance and "meaningful real‑world experiences."
• Leaders demonstrate "relentless determination" in addressing attendance barriers, leading to rates now in line with national expectations for specialist settings.
• Staff build "trusting relationships" with pupils, creating a culture where bullying is not tolerated and behaviour is typically "purposeful."
• The inclusion strategy has a "palpable impact," with personalised strategies helping pupils re-engage in learning.

Areas to improve

• Leaders must "identify the key curriculum content that pupils need to secure in all subjects" to ensure knowledge builds securely over time.
• Assessment practices need refinement to "identify exactly what pupils have learned and any gaps in knowledge" so these can be addressed.

Safeguarding

The safeguarding standards are met, with leaders establishing an "open culture in which safeguarding is everyone's responsibility" and concerns actively managed.