The Westleigh School receives 'Good' in Academy's first Ofsted rating

The Westleigh School, based on Westleigh Lane, was subsumed under the Shaw Education Trust Academy in 2018, following an 'Inadequate' Ofsted rating two years previously.

Funded by the government rather than by the local authority, Academies have more control over the organisation and curriculum than ordinary schools do.

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The Westleigh School had their first Ofsted inspection as an Academy last month (Image: The Westleigh School)

As routine Ofsted inspections were delayed by the pandemic, The Westleigh School had its first full inspection over a two-day period in November.

Inspecting the Academy on quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management, the Westleigh School scored 'Good' in all areas.

School leaders were praised for instilling “high expectations into all aspects of pupils’ school lives” by fostering a culture of inclusion and ambition.

The report said that pupils are supported to “overcome any social disadvantage or other barrier to success”, and contribute to the wider school community.

Inspectors also recognised leaders’ determination to ensure that pupils are provided with a life-enhancing education, and that those with additional needs are identified and supported.

Pupils were commended for being well behaved and focused on learning (Image: The Westleigh School)

Principal Carlton Bramwell said: “This result has been achieved because we, as a community, believe that anything is possible.

"Our commitment to secure the best possible outcomes and life chances for all our learners is stronger than ever.”

The report outlines the benefit of the Curriculum Pledge; highlighting that students benefit from the strong programme of enrichment activities, where learners routinely visit places of value and interest.

Pupils at the school were also commended for being well-behaved and focused on learning in class, with Ofsted finding that pupils “benefit immensely from the Westleigh pledge”.

Mr Bramwell continued: “Our incredible partnership with the Shaw Education Trust will ensure excellence is our only acceptable standard.

“We are committed to providing our students with the best possible educational experience and prepare them for life after school.”

Staff are delighted at the Ofsted rating (Image: The Westleigh School)

Shaw Education Trust’s CEO, Jo Morgan, commented: “We are absolutely delighted that the exceptional progress The Westleigh School, its leaders, staff, and students, have made is celebrated in this Ofsted report.

“This is the first stage of their remarkable journey and with the continued support of the Trust, will relentlessly drive forward to even greater heights.”