Stone Lodge Academy

Overview

The report states that while most pupils enjoy school and form positive relationships, "weaknesses in the quality of education limit many pupils’ progress through the curriculum." Inspectors found that the curriculum is not well matched to pupils' needs, expectations are often too low, and too many pupils miss school regularly. The inspection concluded that the school "requires significant improvement" due to ineffective safeguarding and inconsistent teaching.

Strengths

• Pupils are described as "polite and show respect for each other," forming positive relationships with peers and adults.
• Pupils "feel well cared for" and know they have someone to talk to if worried.
• Many pupils enjoy enrichment activities, such as sports, which "help to build their confidence."
• In some subjects, such as physical education, learning is "carefully planned" and staff adapt teaching well.
• Older pupils gain confidence through trips and awards, such as the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

Areas to improve

• The school must strengthen safeguarding procedures to ensure staff are supported to protect pupils effectively.
• The curriculum needs to be "well sequenced, clearly defined" so all pupils achieve well.
• Staff must develop expertise to teach reading consistently and ensure assessment accurately informs teaching.
• The school needs a clear strategy to improve attendance for persistently absent pupils.
• The trust must provide stronger oversight and challenge to ensure the school meets its core responsibilities.

Safeguarding

The report states that "safeguarding is not effective" and that "some pupils are at risk of not being properly protected" because staff do not always follow government guidance on harmful sexual behaviour or provide timely support.