Inclusion is a ‘defining strength’ of Bristol’s Wallscourt Farm Academy, according to Ofsted inspectors who say pupils ‘thrive’ at a school which meets or surpasses expectations in all inspection areas.
In Wallscourt Farm’s first inspection under the watchdog’s new framework, it received a ‘strong’ grade for its inclusive practice, and was told it meets expectations in all other areas, including leadership, teaching and curriculum, and pupil wellbeing and achievement.
The school was additionally praised for its effective safeguarding by inspectors who also highlighted ‘engaging and purposeful’ learning, and school routines which ‘help pupils to feel confident and ready to learn’.
In her report, lead inspector Tonwen Empson said: “Pupils thrive at this school. A real sense of belonging is evident in the way children talk about their daily experiences.
“The school community is welcoming and staff know pupils well. This helps pupils to feel safe, valued and supported. Staff take time to understand individual needs, including those of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities.
“Warm, nurturing relationships contribute to a calm and settled atmosphere. Expectations are clear and pupils learn to understand right from wrong. Consideration for others is encouraged and this is reflected in the respectful conduct seen throughout the school.
“A positive contribution to school life is evident in pupils’ kindness, cooperation and sense of responsibility. Effort, resilience and positive attitudes are recognised and celebrated.”
The report went on to offer positive feedback on each of the key areas inspected.
On inclusion, Ofsted said: “Inclusion is a defining strength of the school. Pupils are known well and welcomed warmly, whatever their background or starting point. The culture is one, where difference is understood and valued, and where vulnerable pupils grow in confidence and independence. Staff take time to understand each pupil’s needs, and this shapes the support they provide.
“Leaders identify pupils’ needs with care and precision. They act early, drawing on a wide range of information to ensure that support is closely matched to what each pupil requires.”
On pupil achievement, the report said: “Pupils, including those who are disadvantaged, achieve well. This is evident in published key stage 2 outcomes that are consistently above the national average.
“Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities also achieve well because their needs are identified early and supported thoughtfully. Pupils are well prepared for the move to Year 7.”
On curriculum and teaching, inspectors said: “The curriculum has been shaped with curiosity and ambition at its core. Leaders want pupils to think like subject specialists, and this is reflected in the way learning is organised. Pupils respond well to the active, collaborative approaches used across subjects.”
And on pupils’ development and wellbeing, Ofsted said: “The curriculum sets out clear knowledge for pupils to build over time in areas, such as health, relationships, citizenship and safety. This sits naturally alongside the school’s enquiry‑led ethos, where pupils are encouraged to notice, question and reflect.
“Relationships sit at the heart of the school’s work. Staff respond sensitively when pupils have difficulty managing their emotions, offering choices that help pupils to manage their behaviour. Pupils say they feel cared for and well supported.”
Ofsted’s findings have been welcomed by leaders within the school, and its parent trust the Cabot Learning Federation.
Charlotte Black, Principal at Wallscourt Farm Academy, said:
“We are incredibly proud that this Ofsted report reflects what our families, staff and learners experience every day at Wallscourt Farm Academy.
“To have inclusion recognised as ‘a defining strength of the school’ is particularly meaningful, as it reflects our belief that every child should feel known, valued and that they truly belong.
“The report celebrates the strong relationships, ambitious curriculum and supportive culture that make our school such a special place to learn and grow.
“This outcome is a testament to the dedication of our staff, past and present, and the strength of the partnership we share with our families and wider community.”
Steve Taylor, Chief Executive Officer of the Cabot Learning Federation, said:
“Wallscourt Farm Academy has been a wonderful place to go to school since it opened in 2013, and I am delighted that inspectors continued to recognise that in their recent visit.
“Many congratulations to the team for their ongoing commitment to the community and to excellent provision for children. I know the school will continue to go from strength to strength.”
