November 21, 2024

Driving curriculum excellence, the transformational impact of VNET on School Improvement

Supporting School Improvement – Case Study

School Snapshot

Synergy Multi-Academy Trust (MAT) is a group of 15 schools in Norfolk, that provide education for children from ages 2–18. VNET works closely with the primary phase in this Trust.

Timescale

Academic years, 21/22, 22/23 and 23/24

Challenge

Synergy MAT engaged VNET to support its schools in addressing issues around curriculum design, teacher subject knowledge, and pupil outcomes.

Some schools had received "Requires Improvement" judgements, highlighting gaps in phonics, early reading, and overall curriculum planning.

The MAT aimed to work with VNET to build coherent curriculum structures, strengthen leadership, and implement effective assessment strategies to ensure positive future inspections but more importantly the best outcomes for children.

Solution

Strategies:

Series of VNET visits, reviews, and focused reports to schools

Guidance on implementing structured resources for core and foundation subjects

Targeted support and professional development for subject leaders, helping them gain confidence and clarity in curriculum delivery

Regular learning walks, pupil interviews, and deep dives conducted by VNET in schools to provide schools with detailed feedback on teaching and curriculum impact.

Outcomes

The impact of VNET’s visits was evident in improved curriculum delivery, stronger leadership, and enhanced pupil outcomes. As a result, all schools within the MAT achieved a “Good” judgement in their most recent Ofsted inspections.

Inspectors noted consistent, high-quality teaching, clear curriculum structures, and strong leadership capacity, all of which were directly influenced by the strategic support and review processes put in place by VNET.

Pupils demonstrated higher levels of engagement and enthusiasm in lessons, and leaders were able to articulate their curriculum intent and implementation confidently.

Benefits

The external perspective from VNET enabled a more collaborative culture among the schools, promoting shared learning and development.

The consistent use of VNET’s review framework created a strong foundation for professional dialogue and strategic planning, which contributed to the successful inspection outcomes across the MAT.

MAT leaders were also able to make decisions on curriculum delivery which helped to strengthen their internal processes.

Testimonial

“The support from VNET has had a positive impact on the Trust, ensuring that we strive for educational quality and remain open to external views and challenge.” Richard Lord, Deputy CEO, Synergy Multi Academy Trust