Stone Lodge Academy

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is a good school Governors are committed and highly effective. Over the last three years, the governing body has ensured that the school has improved rapidly.

The headteacher has been relentless in his drive to improve provision. As a result, the quality of teaching and the achievement of pupils are good. The headteacher's determined and focused leadership has ensured that high expectations are shared by all staff.

Outcomes for pupils are good. Pupils make particularly strong progress at key stage 3 and key stage 4. The quality of teaching, learning and assessment has improved overall because of effective training and higher staff expectations.

T...eaching has improved strongly in most subjects. However, there is still some variability in quality at key stage 1 and key stage 2. The curriculum is carefully designed to meet pupils' individual needs.

It is supported by a wide range of visits and focused outdoor activities which stimulate communication. Pupils make very good progress in mathematics as a result of consistently strong teaching. Staff know their pupils well.

They show compassion and consistent care. They are positive role models. Pupils say that they enjoy school and feel safe.

They are well informed about how to keep themselves safe when using modern technology. Behaviour is good. Pupils understand the difference between right and wrong.

They are kind, caring and considerate of each other Disadvantaged pupils are making strong progress from their starting points as leaders use additional funding wisely. Parents and carers speak highly of the school. They appreciate the quality of education and care that the school provides for their children.

The progress pupils make in their writing is not as rapid as in other subjects. At times, teachers provide insufficient challenge for the most able pupils. Consequently, they do not make as much progress as they should.

The improvement plan is not sharp enough to make sure that actions are thoroughly checked or to produce outstanding progress.

Information about this school

Stone Lodge Academy converted to an academy special school in February 2015. The school is sponsored by Acorn Care and Education.

The school provides for pupils with moderate learning difficulties. Pupils may also experience other complex needs, such as social, emotional and mental health needs, autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, attention deficit disorder, Asperger syndrome, and speech and language difficulties. All pupils have an education, health and care plan or a statement of special educational needs.

The proportion of pupils who are supported by the pupil premium is well above average. A greater than average proportion of pupils come from disadvantaged backgrounds. The school uses the alternative provider Pushforward.

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