Pickhurst Infant Academy

Overview

Pickhurst Infant Academy is described as a school where pupils "excel in a supportive and happy environment" and "flourish." Leaders have established a culture of "highest expectations and ambition," resulting in "above-average outcomes" and strong progress for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities.

Strengths

• Pupils achieve well, producing "high-quality work that they are proud of," with particular strength in phonics, early reading, and vocabulary.
• Attendance is "consistently above national averages," supported by leaders who "challenge absence robustly" and celebrate regular attendance.
• Behaviour is positive, with "calm, orderly and safe routines" and respectful relationships where bullying is "not tolerated."
• The curriculum is "ambitious" and "well-sequenced," with staff demonstrating "excellent subject knowledge" and effective support for inclusion.
• Personal development is extensive, offering rich enrichment activities that help pupils develop resilience, confidence, and a sense of community contribution.

Areas to improve

• Leaders should "further refine and embed their already highly tailored and bespoke curriculum" to maximise its impact on pupils with higher needs.

Safeguarding

The safeguarding standards are met, with an "open culture in which safeguarding is everyone's responsibility" ensuring pupils are "made safer and feel safe."