Ofsted

Ofsted

Ratings & Reports

Following the most recent Ofsted inspection in October 2023, we are proud to share that inspectors commented that:

‘Sporting Stars Academy has pupils’ best interests at heart. Many pupils have had negative experiences of education in the past but here they feel safe and cared for.

 

As one pupil said during the inspection, ‘They build you up; they motivate you.’

Our staff are highly skilled and dedicated at placing the needs of our students at the heart of everything that we do, therefore it was pleasing to see that this had been recognised within the report:

‘Staff are committed to helping pupils succeed, providing personalised support.  Most pupils have special educational needs and/or disabilities. Staff identify these needs very well. They know each pupil’s abilities and have designed a curriculum to spark pupils’ interests and help them gain suitable qualifications.’

Students at Sporting Stars Academy follow an appropriate pathway suitable for their presenting needs, whether within our mainstream or nurture provision or via a bespoke curriculum, including a reintegration timetable. This curriculum is designed to motivate and reengage students enabling them, where appropriate, to return to a mainstream environment when ready.

Ofsted Inspectors recognised that work had begun to improve the quality of the curriculum, namely the planning of knowledge in new subject areas. The curriculum as part of Quality of Education has been a significant focus of the Academy’s Improvement Plan and subjects which were new at the time of inspection such as Humanities are now well embedded.

Another area of focus for the Academy this academic year was the approach to phonics intervention. Through the appointment of the Head of Nurture and SENDCO, intervention pathways are now embedded within the Academy and reading assessments demonstrate considerable improvements and success within this area.

Personal Development at Sporting Stars Academy was graded as GOOD.

‘Pupils deepen their understanding of a range of social topics by studying personal, social and health education (PSHE). Leaders have carefully considered the content of this curriculum. They ensure it meets pupils’ needs.’

Behaviour at Sporting Stars Academy was graded as GOOD.

‘The school has high expectations for pupils’ behaviour. Pupils live up to these expectations. They are well behaved and respectful towards each other and adults. They have good manners and follow instructions. This makes the school a calm place in which to learn’.

Sporting Stars Academy is registered to provide opportunities for young people aged 16 to 19 years. Here they can continue to access GCSE and vocational qualifications whilst gaining life skills that promote preparation for adulthood and independence. Individual pathways enable them to successfully navigate to the next stage of their education or employment. Sixth-form provision at Sporting Stars Academy was also graded as GOOD.

Where the report identifies clear areas for development, leaders have taken decisive steps to lead improvements.

‘Leaders share a strong sense of moral purpose. Everyone is determined to help each pupil reach their full potential. Staff morale is high, and adults feel valued. They are proud of the important work they are doing.’

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