Denewood Academy was inspected on 13-14 February 2020
Overall, the Academy received a good judgement, which we are very proud of. However, we recognise the importance of continued improvement in order to provide our pupils with an outstanding educational experience.
What is it like to attend this school?
Pupils like attending this welcoming and friendly school. Leaders create a calm place of safety where pupils, previously ‘switched off’ from education, are now learning. Staff help pupils to overcome challenges and focus on their educational goals. Pupils like to spend time with Buddy, the school therapy dog, who helps them to be calm and ‘stay on track’. Pupils behave well. Pupils collect points for their achievements, striving towards the Denewood expectations to be ‘aspirational, enthusiastic and responsible’. They learn to celebrate their efforts, and those of others, in class and in assemblies. Leaders provide many interesting opportunities for pupils to learn about different careers and the skills and qualifications needed. Staff also instil in pupils a sense of responsibility. Pupils take part in the local community by supporting people who are homeless and doing jobs such as litter picking. Pupils show kindness and respect towards one another and adults. Pupils say that it is easy to make friends at Denewood. They say that the school is a safe place. Pupils are confident that if a problem occurs, they can tell an adult, who will sort it out quickly. Pupils confirm that bullying rarely happens and is dealt with by leaders if it does.
What does the school do well?
Leaders give pupils an education that captures their interest and helps them to prepare for the future. In particular, pupils learn the skills they need to return to mainstream schools. Learning is broad, interesting and varied. Teachers check what pupils already know and remember. They use this information to plan what to teach next.
Leaders pinpoint the difficulties that pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) experience, and arrange timely support. Staff work with a range of agencies to make sure that pupils have appropriate learning plans in place.
Most teachers use their good subject knowledge to stretch and challenge pupils. Support staff ensure that help is on hand when pupils need it. Pupils achieve well in most subjects.