King Alfred’s Academy in Wantage is one of the largest schools in the county, accommodating just under 1,800 students. Rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted, the school had previously faced some disciplinary challenges. Videos shared on social media showed Year 7 and 8 students involved in physical altercations within and near the school premises.
At the time of these incidents, Jonathan Smart, who had recently assumed the position of headteacher, noted the significant impact social media had on these events. However, he highlights that the situation has greatly improved since then.
The improvement in behavior at the school is notable across classrooms and school premises. Mr. Smart attributes these positive changes to a culture shift driven by clear classroom routines and a structured ‘meet and greet’ each morning.
“Providing our staff with comprehensive training ensures consistency in the application of our practices,” he said. “Communicating our expectations clearly to parents helps reinforce these standards at home. It’s also vital to establish an infrastructure that makes young people feel safe and aware of what is expected of them.”
An initiative to curb issues related to phone usage has also proven effective. Since last September, students lock their phones in Yondr pouches during the school day, a strategy that balances parents’ desire for their children to be contactable while commuting. This approach has encouraged students to engage more with each other and has contributed to the positive change in the school’s culture.
Mr. Smart also emphasized an improved timetable, developed by the deputy headteacher, which has streamlined staff movement between the school’s Challow Road and Portway sites and reintroduced tutor time, previously disrupted by the pandemic.
The headteacher praised these efforts, mentioning how they foster connections, stability, and routine for students. The results have been promising, reflected in an “impressive set of results” for King Alfred’s 6th Form. Released in August, nearly 30 per cent of A-level grades were A* or A, and over 50 per cent of BTEC grades achieved distinction* or distinction.
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