• Case Study: The John Wallis Church of England Academy

    Name of School:

    The John Wallis Church of England Academy

    Location:

    Kent

    School Type/Context:

    • Foundation and Scope:
      • It is a sponsor-led Academy catering to students aged 3 to 19 years, including a nursery for children aged 3 months to 3 years.
      • Founded in 2010, the academy serves children and families in Ashford, Kent.
      • The number of students attending university has been rising, with over 85% gaining admission to their first-choice universities, including 10% at Russell Group Universities.
    • Student Demographics:
      • 1777 pupils and students are currently enrolled.
      • 33% of pupils have Pupil Premium Status (compared to Kent’s average of 23% and the national average of 22%).
      • 17% have English as an Additional Language (compared to Kent’s average of 10% and the national average of 19%).
      • 3.01% of pupils have asylum seeker status/refugee backgrounds.
      • 23.1% are on the SEND register, with 3% having an EHCP.
      • 1.08% come from Romany Gypsy/Travelling communities.
      • 0.91% have been in care.

    Phone-free Status:

    • Pre-January 2024 had a policy of phones should be switched off and in bottom of bags.
    • January 2024, launched a Phone-free initiative. (Yondr Pouches)

    Cost of implementation:

    • £30,850

    Reported Impact:

    • 40% reduction in the number of phase 3 and 4 detentions (classroom disruption)
    • 25% reduction in truancy
    • 75% reduction in the number of safeguarding incidents (including cyber bullying and online abuse)
    • 98%+ compliance on daily checks

    Contact:

    Mr Damian McBeath, Principal
    T: 01233 652 627
    PA to the Principal: sfrancis@thejohnwallisacademy.org