Tulip Academy

Highlights from Latest Inspection

What is it like to attend this school?

Pupils make excellent personal and academic progress in this inclusive school. They know the 'Priory Principles' well: pride; protect; pleasant; persevere; and proactive.

These develop pupils' character and prepare them well for adult life. The school is calm and welcoming. Pupils know that they can talk to any member of staff about their work or how they feel.

Pupils feel safe and supported. There is very little bullying at the school. When it does happen, or pupils perceive it to be happening, staff deal with it very well.

Staff help pupils to manage their behaviour, which improves during their time at the school.

Staff model courteous behaviour an...d appropriate social interactions. This ensures that pupils understand how to treat others with respect.

Learning takes place in well-organised classrooms. Teachers have high aspirations for all pupils. Pupils work hard and enjoy learning.

Pupils have a wide variety of extra-curricular experiences to support their personal development. These experiences help them to develop their interests and talents.Parents and carers are positive about the care and education their children receive.

The vast majority of pupils leave the school with increased confidence and improved social skills. They are ready to take on new social and academic challenges.

What does the school do well and what does it need to do better?

Leaders consistently share with staff their high ambitions for pupils.

Staff help pupils to manage their behaviour and specific needs. This support is highly effective and carried out with great sensitivity. Pupils receive excellent support with their learning.

They achieve very well. By the end of Year 11, all gain qualifications to help them move on to colleges or other specialist settings.

Plans for learning in different subjects are coherent and progressive.

In mathematics, pupils study key concepts and relate them to real-life situations. Pupils' understanding of these concepts develops strongly over time. For example, Year 8 pupils learn about place value of numbers.

They learn how to record and solve problems with two- and three- digit numbers. In Year 11, pupils learn to apply this knowledge to handling money. They explore problems related to understanding finance.

In art, pupils develop their knowledge of drawing skills. They learn how to use different pencils to create effects, lines and shapes. As they progress through school, they create detailed drawings and designs.

Teachers know pupils extremely well. They ask carefully planned questions to help pupils recall and build on their previous learning. Over time, pupils grow in confidence and become increasingly curious.

They respond very well to the challenging work that teachers provide.Pupils develop their cultural understanding well. They visit local theatres and businesses.

They take part in charity fundraising events. They join pupils from other schools to take part in sporting and musical activities. Pupils work with professional musicians, and other local schools, as part of a local music project.

Staff provide extensive opportunities that promote pupils' personal, social and emotional development very well. Pupils take part in lunchtime and after-school clubs. Adults provide essential support for pupils' mental health.

This helps pupils to discuss their feelings and anxieties. Pupils learn about different cultures, beliefs and global issues. Themed days, with an international focus, help pupils to learn about different countries.

They appreciate the need to respect diversity. They can apply to hold positions of responsibility in the school. These include as members of the school council, charity leaders or online buddies.

Pupils are exceptionally well prepared for the challenges and opportunities of adulthood.

Leaders ensure that pupils study courses that will help them with their next steps. Leaders also provide targeted work experience opportunities.

These mean that pupils can make informed decisions about their interests and future careers.

Trustees and governors are highly ambitious for pupils and staff. They believe that pupils should receive an excellent education and exceptional pastoral care.

They ensure that all staff have high-quality coaching and training. Staff appreciate these opportunities to improve their practice. They feel valued by leaders and are proud to work at the school.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.

There is a culture of vigilance throughout the school. Staff know their safeguarding responsibilities.

They receive regular training on how to keep pupils safe. They are aware of the vulnerabilities of pupils who attend the school. Teachers prioritise teaching pupils how to stay safe.

This includes when using social media. Staff pass on any safeguarding concerns swiftly to a safeguarding leader.

Safeguarding leaders work well with parents and agencies.

They ensure that pupils receive the support they need. Leaders keep comprehensive records. They meet regularly as a team to discuss the support they are providing to pupils.