Koru Independent AP Academy

Koru Independent AP Academy is performing very well following its first standard inspection. The school, which was registered in January 2025 and serves pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities whose places are commissioned by the local authority, meets all independent school standards and meets the safeguarding standards. Inspectors found strong practice across achievement, attendance and behaviour, curriculum and teaching, inclusion, leadership and governance, and personal development and wellbeing. Pupils often arrive with significant gaps in learning, previous negative experiences of school and sometimes long periods out of education, but leaders and staff respond quickly and effectively to their needs. Pupils make rapid progress from their individual starting points, including in reading, mathematics and vocational subjects, and are well prepared for college, apprenticeships or training. Attendance improves over time, behaviour is calm and respectful, and pupils are supported to manage their emotions and re-engage with education. The curriculum is broad, ambitious and carefully sequenced, and teaching is consistently strong. Personal development is a notable strength, with pupils benefiting from a wide range of enrichment, careers guidance and support for their wellbeing. Leadership is ambitious and well supported by governance. Staff feel valued, morale is high and partnerships with families and external agencies are strong. The report identifies no significant weaknesses or areas for urgent improvement. The only next step is for leaders to continue developing staff expertise so that high teaching standards are sustained across all areas of the curriculum.