Outwood Academy Bydales

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is an outstanding school Since the school opened in February 2015, the progress made by pupils has steadily improved. Pupils make outstanding progress in a wide range of subjects.

Leaders are ambitious and share a common vision. They have high expectations of each other, staff and pupils. Most subject leaders have an excellent understanding of their role within school.

They are passionate and work closely with each other and senior leaders. Pupils' behaviour is exemplary. They are polite, well mannered and mature.

Pupils value the opinions of their classmates and want the best for each other. Attendance and punctuality have improved considerably.... Most pupils rarely miss a day at school.

This is because pupils value the education they receive. However, reducing the persistent absence rates of disadvantaged pupils remains a priority for the school. The varied extra-curricular programme is tailored to suit pupils' interests or weaknesses.

A substantial number of pupils take advantage of these opportunities. Teaching inspires pupils to succeed. Lessons feature tasks which support and challenge pupils, from their different starting points, to make excellent progress.

Teachers' questioning is highly effective. They regularly, and skilfully, probe pupils' understanding in order to meet their needs. Effective routines in class encourage pupils to collaborate and share their ideas.

The progress made by disadvantaged pupils is above that made by other pupils nationally in the large majority of subjects. The teaching of mathematics is particularly strong. As a result, pupils make progress that is matched by few others nationally.

Governors possess a wide range of skills and expertise. They are well informed, curious and have a deep and accurate understanding of the school's effectiveness. Leaders are honest in their evaluation of the school's effectiveness.

They provide in-depth training for staff and have an excellent track record of improving teachers' skills.

Information about this school

The school is smaller than the average-sized secondary school. Almost all pupils are White British.

The proportion of pupils who are disadvantaged and receive support from the pupil premium is below the national average. The proportion of pupils who have SEN and/or disabilities is below average. Bydales School joined the Outwood Grange Academies Trust (OGAT) in February 2015 and became Outwood Academy Bydales.

The school is a member of OGAT. Responsibility for the school rests with the board of trustees. The structure of the trust's governance and management can be found on the school's website.

The associate executive principal provides support to other academies within the trust, including Outwood Academy Redcar. The school does not use any alternative education providers. The school meets the government's current floor standards based on key stage 4 academic performance results.