Ormiston Ilkeston Enterprise Academy (OIEA) in Derbyshire is celebrating after Ofsted confirms the school has achieved a huge turnaround, as it is officially rated good in all areas for the first time.
This follows the inspection, which took place on the 25 and 26 June, where the academy had been awarded a single-word judgement, as the inspection took place before the recently announced Ofsted changes. The academy had been rated requires improvement three times since 2016. However, staff and leaders, with the support from the trust, have been working tirelessly to bring about sustained improvement, with their transformation confirmed by Ofsted. This has also been reflected in their improved GCSE results this year, with students celebrating a wide range of exam success, including a 10% increase in maths and English at grade 5.
We are beyond delighted to see the hard work and effort that has gone into turning around our academy recognised by Ofsted.
Simon Leach, Principal
The report, which is full of highlights, praises the academy for “the high expectations it has for all its students”, and the “ambitious and well-organised” curriculum which is now in place.
Throughout, the report highlights how recent efforts have been made to drive improvements in the quality of education being delivered, including “all staff receiving training to develop their understanding and expertise on how to deliver the curriculum”.
Ofsted also noted how the academy’s core values of ‘courage, ambition, respect and excellence’ are clearly demonstrated by students, enabling them to make a significant difference to their learning environment and creating a “caring and welcoming” school. Inspectors also confirmed that “students are very positive about the changes made.”
Other highlights noted in the report include:
- “The academy’s values have made a big difference to behaviour and attitudes helping students to enjoy their lessons and do their best.”
- “Students are offered a wide range of experiences during their time at the academy, including learning to play an instrument, taking part in a variety of sports and running a newspaper.”
- “The academy has ensured that the curriculum for students with special educational needs and/or disabilities meets their needs, meaning that they are successful.”
- “Reading is a priority at the academy, students are well supported to gain an understanding of key vocabulary.”
- “The curriculum strongly supports students’ personal development – students are provided with a wealth of experiences that broaden their horizons and deepen their cultural understanding.”
- “Students also learn about future employment and are able to take part in a wide range of visits, including to Berlin or Thailand.”
- “Students at the school behave well. They are also supported to keep themselves psychically and mentally fit.”
- “The academy, the trust and governors support leaders well, including those new to teaching enabling them to be successful in their roles.”
Simon Leach, Principal said: “We are beyond delighted to see the hard work and effort that has gone into turning around our academy recognised by Ofsted. The impact is felt across our school and we are so proud to have created a highly ambitious environment where our students not only feel encouraged but inspired to learn and succeed.
“I would like to say a huge thank you to every member of our fantastic community – including our dedicated and hardworking students and staff, as well as our supportive parents, carers and families, who have all been instrumental in achieving this positive outcome.”
Rod Hughes, Education Director said: “This latest Ofsted rating is a testament to the hard work and commitment shown by all the OIEA team to deliver improved outcomes for every child and young person. With these strong foundations in place, we look forward to seeing the academy continue to go from strength to strength.”