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Castle Academy in Northampton is celebrating a strong Ofsted report which praises pupils’ ‘exemplary’ behaviour and ‘highly enthusiastic attitudes to learning’.
The school, described as a ‘harmonious oasis of calm in a busy town centre’, achieved a strong standard rating in two of the new Ofsted categories under the new inspection framework.
Schools no longer receive a single rating but are scored in a number of categories. The school achieved the strong standard rating for attendance and behaviour and for personal development and wellbeing. It scored the expected standard rating for achievement, curriculum and teaching, early years, inclusion, and leadership and governance.
The report says: “The school has a calm environment that is highly conducive to learning, enabling all pupils to thrive. Pupils work hard with immense enthusiasm. Older pupils are positive role models for their younger peers, showing dedication to learning.
“The personal development programme is extensive and thoughtfully in tune with the school’s community. It has a deep impact on pupils’ wellbeing and their aspirations for their future lives.”
The inspection, which took place in May, reported that Castle Academy sees regular attendance from pupils and has strong relationships with parents. It praised the school’s ‘impressive’ curriculum, its commitment to giving children in early years a strong start to their education, and its inclusive culture.
The report continues: “Pupils are immensely proud of their welcoming school. They understand the importance of treating everyone with fairness and respect, regardless of disability, culture, race or religion.”
Executive Headteacher Daniel Lugg said: “This is a fantastic reflection of the inclusive and welcoming school we are, and the pupils and staff at Castle Academy should be immensely proud of this report.
“I’m pleased that the inspectors rated our attendance and behaviour and our personal development and wellbeing so highly, as we pride ourselves on being a calm, nurturing school where all pupils are supported to be the very best they can be.”
Head of School Ruth Brennan said: “This was Castle’s first inspection under the new Ofsted framework and the first since I joined as Head of School, so I’m incredibly proud of the judgements we received in all areas. Castle Academy continues to be a fantastic school, and I’m delighted to be able to share this wonderful outcome with our staff and parents.”
To read the report in full, click here.