Ormiston Latimer Academy has been praised by Ofsted for providing an inclusive and supportive environment where pupils feel valued, engage with learning and are well prepared for their next steps.
The school, which is a high-quality alternative provision setting, is among the first to be inspected under Ofsted’s new national inspection framework, which no longer issues a single overall grade. Instead, schools received a detailed report card with separate judgements across key areas of school life, offering parents and carers a more balanced picture of a school’s strengths and priorities.
Following its full inspection in November 2025, Ofsted confirmed that Ormiston Latimer Academy is meeting the expected standard across all areas of inspection, judging the school’s provision for inclusion and its leadership and governance to be at a strong standard. Inspectors highlighted the positive impact of this work on pupils, noting that “pupils are fortunate to attend this school. Here, they mend their relationship with learning, forge trusting relationships with adults and feel valued.”
Ofsted also praised the academy’s strong partnerships with parents, local authorities, external experts and professional forums, recognising the role this collaboration plays in improving outcomes for pupils. Inspectors noted that “the school works constructively with parents to understand each pupil’s individual circumstances”, while also highlighting that the Trust is “deeply invested in the success of pupils at this school”.
The report goes on to showcase the impact of this approach through the school’s commitment to providing “timely”, “targeted” and “carefully tailored” support, to ensure that all pupils “develop secure key knowledge over time” and are able to succeed.
Other highlights from the report include:
- Staff are supported by regular training on adaptive practice and strategies to support pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities.
- Leaders’ work has created a positive culture where pupils develop increasingly positive attitudes to learning and feel safe knowing that any issues are dealt with swiftly.
- Pupils’ character, confidence and resilience are developed securely, reflecting leaders’ commitment to pupils’ wider growth.
- Pupils contribute to shaping their environment, for example by designing the new library and outside spaces.
- Pupils receive clear advice and support for transition to further education, training or work… they are prepared well for adulthood and learn important life skills to support independence, such as how to manage their finances.
- Leaders use a range of visits and activities to create opportunities and experiences for pupils, including rock climbing, dance and cultural food events.
- Leaders have established a calm, orderly and respectful environment across the school.
While the report identifies areas for further development, including addressing remaining knowledge gaps and ensuring all pupils attend regularly and punctually, inspectors recognised that leaders are “well-focused” and have clear plans in place to ensure pupils achieve consistently well.
Grant Monaghan, Principal at Ormiston Latimer Academy, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Ofsted has recognised the inclusive culture we have built at Ormiston Latimer Academy and the positive impact this has on our pupils. This report reflects the dedication of our staff, the strength of our partnerships with families and the community, and our shared belief that every young person deserves to feel valued and supported to succeed. We are proud of how far our pupils have come and remain firmly focused on continuing to improve outcomes for all.”
Wasim Butt, National Director of AP and Special at Ormiston Academies Trust, added: “Ormiston Latimer Academy plays a vital role in supporting pupils to re-engage with education, and this report reflects the strength of leadership and inclusive practice across the school.
“Ofsted’s findings highlight a clear focus on building positive relationships, working closely with families and partners, and creating the conditions for pupils to feel safe, valued and ready to move forward in their learning. As a Trust, we will continue to support the academy as it builds on this strong foundation and sustains the positive impact recognised in the report.”
Read the full report here.