St Mary Magdalene Academy

Overview

Pupils describe the school as a “kind and welcoming place” that fosters a strong sense of community and mutual respect. The inspection found that staff maintain “consistently high standards” for learning and conduct, resulting in an “ambitious” curriculum that prepares pupils exceptionally well for their future education and careers.

Strengths

• The curriculum is “broad and interesting,” meeting or exceeding national expectations, with careful sequencing that helps pupils secure a “depth of knowledge” in subjects such as Mandarin and English.
• Teachers demonstrate “strong subject knowledge and expertise,” implementing the curriculum with precision and quickly addressing misconceptions to ensure pupils understand new concepts.
• Reading is highly prioritised, with precise phonics instruction in Reception and effective support for those falling behind, ensuring pupils become “accurate, fluent and confident readers.”
• Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities are “accurately identified” and well supported to access the same curriculum as their peers through appropriate adaptations.
• Personal development is “exceptional,” with pupils accessing a wide range of cultural experiences, clubs, and a careers curriculum that supports their next steps.

Areas to improve

• The report identifies no significant areas for improvement.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with leaders who are “well trained and experienced” in managing concerns and working closely with local partners to ensure pupils receive the right help.