Leaders at The Portsmouth Academy take 'determined action' to improve, Ofsted finds in latest inspection

‘Improvements are not yet reflected’ at a secondary school which is dedicated to making positive steps following an Ofsted inspection.

The Portsmouth Academy was visited by the education body on October 6 of this year, and a report has highlighted that leadership is currently in the process of implenting changes to improve. The published findings show that the secondary school is working at the expected standard in personal development and wellbeing, but “needs attention” in all other areas.

It said the school has “established a well-planned development programme” that mirrors the needs of the school community and helps pupils prepare for life beyond school. Caring and effective pastoral support is also in place, which is particulary effective for students who face additional barriers.

Sarah Dedman, headteacher at The Portsmouth Academy, said: "We are pleased that Ofsted has recognised the positive steps being taken across the school, particularly in personal development, behaviour, attendance and the support we provide for our pupils. The report reflects the hard work and commitment of our staff, pupils and wider school community, whom I would like to thank for the part they play in the progress already underway, and which I have no doubt will continue over the coming year.

"We know there is still more to do, and Ofsted acknowledges that many of the improvements we have introduced are at an early stage. However, we are encouraged that inspectors recognised our clear vision, high aspirations and realistic plan for improvement. We remain focused on delivering the best possible outcomes for every pupil."

The inspection highlighted that while improvements have been made, there are “inconsistencies in teaching that mean that pupils do not yet consistently remember important knowledge over time.” Attendance is a high priority with leadership as it “remains too low, particularly so for disadvantaged pupils and pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities.”

Ofsted said: “They have strengthened systems to improve pupils' attendance. Leaders understand the barriers faced by pupils and families and work closely with external agencies to provide support. As a result of these actions, attendance is improving and persistent absence is reducing.

“They have introduced increasingly personalised approaches to help pupils attend more regularly. However, too many pupils still miss important learning because they do not attend school regularly enough.

“Leaders have a clear vision for how they want pupils to learn. However, this work is at an early stage and leaders need more time to embed this. Some aspects are in place. For instance, leaders have designed a curriculum that is well organised and logically sequenced.”

Teachers are “yet to teach the curriculum consistently well across the school” and they do not consistently identify gaps in pupils' knowledge or address these. Leaders have started to deliver training which is starting to make a difference.

Lee Miller MBE, chief executive officer at Thinking Schools Academy Trust, said: "This report reflects the journey The Portsmouth Academy has been on and the dedication of colleagues to continue to enhance the provision and positively impact the lives of every pupil.

“We are pleased that Ofsted has recognised both the strength of the leadership team and the actions already taken to improve the school. Importantly, inspectors recognised that many changes are still relatively new and while it is too soon to see their full impact reflected in outcomes, the school is making positive strides.

"We remain confident that the strong foundations are firmly in place and pupils, families and staff will continue to see further improvements over the coming year."

Safeguarding measures are effective and meet the criteria.

For more information about the Ofsted report for The Portsmouth Academy, click here.