‘No discrimination is tolerated’ at ‘Diverse and inclusive’ Bristol Brunel Academy, says Ofsted
- ‘No evidence’ of political bias at school which postponed MP visit, says Ofsted
- School leaders show ‘profound commitment to inclusive learning environment’
- Staff tell inspectors of ‘harmonious and religiously tolerant atmosphere’
Bristol Brunel Academy in Speedwell is a school with fundamental British values at its heart and a deep commitment to inclusivity, according to Ofsted inspectors who visited the school last week.
The inspection team visited Bristol Brunel to assess its safeguarding, leadership and governance, curriculum and teaching, and the personal development and wellbeing of students, following the postponement of an MP’s visit amid concerns over safety and disruption.
Inspectors spent two days assessing the school, examining policy, culture and curriculum, and hearing the views of 135 staff and 143 parents – all of which were ‘overwhelmingly positive’ about Bristol Brunel.
Ofsted’s evidence showed there is no partisan political behaviour within the school, and instead its leadership works to create and maintain a positive culture of tolerance and inclusivity.
In their report, the inspectors wrote: “Inspectors’ evidence shows that leaders and trustees demonstrate a profound commitment to providing an inclusive learning environment that promotes tolerance and respect for the diversity of modern Britain.
“The values of high expectations, equity of opportunity, championing all pupils, building resilience and togetherness are the underpinning principles of the school’s work.”
The report went on to praise Bristol Brunel in each of the areas assessed.
On personal development and wellbeing, the inspectors said: “Bristol Brunel Academy is a diverse and inclusive community school where pupils are tolerant and respectful of each other as they learn and socialise together. Pupils and staff proudly celebrate this diversity as well as being proudly British.
“Pupils are welcomed warmly into the school, from a range of backgrounds, cultures and religions. No discrimination is tolerated; this was evidenced in discussions with pupils and staff and in their responses to Ofsted’s confidential surveys.
“Pupils are taught to respect and embrace diversity and demonstrate this in their daily interactions with each other, and staff. Pupils feel part of a united, school family.”
On leadership and governance, the report said: “Leaders at this school ensure political impartiality in the curriculum and teaching.
“Staff, including those from minority groups, spoke of the harmonious and religiously tolerant atmosphere in the school. Inspectors heard that staff were proud of the inclusive nature of the school towards pupils.
“This school has a comprehensive and carefully considered strategy for promoting and celebrating fundamental British Values. Staff and pupils have a deep understanding of fundamental British Values, the importance of equality, diversity and inclusion and embrace each of these values day-to-day.”
On curriculum and teaching, Ofsted said: “Leaders ensure that the trust’s shared curriculum is suitably ambitious, broad and balanced. Inspectors found no evidence of partisan political views.
“Staff do not shy away from dealing with contentious issues, but do so in a balanced and accurate way, discussing different perspectives and viewpoints. Pupils in turn, respond to such debates with maturity and respect.”
On safeguarding, Ofsted said: “The safeguarding standards are met. This means that leaders and/or those responsible for governance and oversight fulfil their responsibilities and have established an open culture in which safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility and concerns are actively identified, acted upon and managed. As a result, children are made safer and feel safe.”
