Walbottle Academy has undergone a monumental transformation
Ofsted now judges the academy to be a GOOD school.
Northern Education Trust is delighted to announce that Walbottle Academy has been judged by Ofsted to be a Good school in all categories, following its first graded inspection since joining the trust. Inspectors visited the academy on 25 and 26 January 2023 and were impressed by trust leaders who have taken swift and decisive actions to bring about rapid improvements across all areas of the academy, commenting that leaders have “set high expectations for what students achieve. Pupils are rising to this challenge.”
Inspectors recognised the innovative and effective rewards systems at the academy, which celebrate and encourage attendance and academic achievement and are highly valued by students noting that “They are proud of what they achieve. Leaders have created a positive culture where success is recognised.” Inspectors were also particularly impressed by the exceptional student conduct and behaviour that exists at Walbottle, commenting that “Relationships between staff and students are positive…Behaviour in lessons is calm and focused. Students are engaged in their learning.”
The academy’s new and ambitious curriculum was also noted by inspectors who acknowledged that leaders have “ensured that the range of courses available at key stages 4 and 5 are well matched to student’s aspirations”. Leaders have thought carefully about what students will learn and how different subjects will support each other. Leaders have also prioritised staff training to ensure this well-thought out curriculum is delivered effectively.
Students also commented to inspectors that they “feel safe and happy” and “feel strongly that students treat each other with respect.” Older students commented that Walbottle “feels like a different place”. Inspectors were also impressed by the academy’s relentless focus on improving attendance and positive outcomes for students, saying “Trust leaders are unapologetically focused on the ‘life chances’ for students. This moral purpose has driven the rapid improvement.” Staff are also overwhelmingly positive about the changes the trust have brought to the academy, commenting that they feel “well supported by leaders … they are now able to do the best for their students due to significant improvements … staff are proud to work at Walbottle Academy.”
Martin Wood, Principal said “I am thrilled for our whole community that Ofsted has recognised the incredible transformation that Walbottle Academy has had. This would not have been possible without the relentless hard work and commitment of our talented staff, our amazing students as well as the support we have received from our fantastic families. I am pleased that inspectors have recognised the hard work and rapid improvements across all areas of school life. Similarly, we are proud inspectors have acknowledged our strong culture of praise that exists at the academy and the high expectations that we hold. We will never be complacent and we will always strive to produce the best possible life chances for our amazing students.”
Rob Tarn CBE, Chief Executive said “I am delighted that Walbottle Academy has been judged as Good by Ofsted. Since joining the trust, the school has blossomed and it is now unrecognisable from the school it once was and this has been made possible thanks to the focus, dedication and energy of everyone involved: senior leaders, trustees, governors, staff and of course our incredible and dedicated students and their families.”
Please see the report below.
