Raleigh Infant Academy

Overview

Raleigh Infant Academy is a school where pupils demonstrate high levels of aspiration, respect, and kindness. The report describes a positive environment where students are enthused by an ambitious curriculum and feel safe, supported, and proud of their work.

Strengths

• Pupils respond positively to staff’s high expectations, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), and take pride in their work.
• Leaders have designed a curriculum that clearly sets out knowledge to be learned, with reading being integral and phonics taught consistently from Reception.
• Staff effectively support pupils with SEND through individual plans and adapted teaching, ensuring they access the same curriculum as their peers.
• The early years provision gives children a positive start, with well-planned activities focusing on fine-motor skills and communication.
• Governors carry out their duties with diligence, supporting and challenging leaders effectively, while staff feel supported and value the school’s vision.

Areas to improve

• New subject leaders require training to develop the skills needed to effectively monitor and evaluate their curriculum areas.
• Inconsistencies in the quality of teaching in the wider early years curriculum mean children are not always achieving as well as they could.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with appropriate checks carried out, well-trained staff, and pupils taught how to keep themselves safe.