Inspectors say Kettering school continues to require improvement

Following a two-day inspection in October, Ofsted has said Kettering Science Academy in Deeble Road requires improvement in all areas.

This is the same rating as its previous inspection in May 2017.

The report said some teachers do not have high enough expectations of pupils, especially those with SEND, and not all teachers have the skills they need to be fully effective.

Inspectors said too many pupils are excluded and pupils' behaviour needs to improve.

However, the report also said pupils respect their school and the learning environment promotes their learning well.

It said pupils take advantage of the wide range of after-school experiences on offer and they appreciate the opportunity to learn new things and visit new places.

The report said: "Since the previous inspection, new senior and subject leaders have joined the school.

"There is now a full complement of teaching staff.

"Parents and the community have a more positive view of the school.

"School leaders recognise the challenges that they face.

"They know what they need to do to improve the school.

"They receive strong support from governors and the trust."

Inspectors noted that leaders have a clear curriculum vision of 'being the best you can be' and they want pupils to succeed when they leave the school.

They say implementation of this vision is in its early stages.

While the report highlights areas for improvement, it also notes how pupils speak warmly about their 'supportive teachers,' they say many of their teachers 'have a heart' and many pupils look smart in their uniform.

It also said sixth form students are positive role models to the younger pupils and a credit to the school.

Brooke Weston Trust CEO Dr Andrew Campbell said: "Ofsted sees that Kettering Science Academy is a school with heart, soul and a vision for its students.

"It has great facilities, a committed staff and high ambitions for its future.

"Strategies already put in place are yielding positive results and The Brooke Weston Trust, secondary executive principal Anne Hill and the leaders at the school are determined to continue their work to ensure that the academy fulfils its potential."

Kettering Science Academy’s principal Tony Segalini said: "This report highlights the fact that our students value the school and feel safe and supported.

"It is gratifying that the inspectors noted the quality of our sixth form and safeguarding provision.

"Kettering Science Academy is an evolving and enthusiastic learning community and I and my staff are determined to provide the very best that we can for our students, in order to encourage them to be the best that they can be."

To read the report in full go to https://reports.ofsted.gov.uk/provider/23/135967