Ormiston Beachcroft Academy, a high-quality alternative provision (AP) setting, has been praised for the high expectations it holds for students, as it retains its good Ofsted status.
The academy motivates, supports and inspires students who are no longer able to attend mainstream schools, to re-engage with their education.
In the academy’s latest Ofsted inspection, which took place on the 30 April and 1 May, staff and leaders were praised for supporting students to develop the skills and confidence they need to transfer successfully back into a mainstream setting, and to achieve highly in the future.
As part of this mission, the report highlighted how teachers committed to adapting teaching methods to ensure all students are accessing learning. Reflective of this, Ofsted inspectors praised the academy for developing an approach to learning that suits students’ needs and enables them to enter at various points in the school year to access this vital additional support.
The academy’s leaders have implemented a wide range of effective practices to ensure students are accessing a high standard of education, while also raising their aspirations, which has been recognised by Ofsted. This includes:
- Staff support students to concentrate on their learning, enabling students to gradually regain confidence about what they can achieve.
- Staff and students enjoy a culture of mutual respect which has led to students describing the school community as being “like a family”.
- Ofsted noted that during their time at the academy, students are able to catch up on what they have missed academically and learn techniques to better manage their behaviour.
- Inspectors praised the academy for its implementation of a broad curriculum that includes a wide range of subjects. Teachers are also skilled in adapting teaching so that students access the curriculum.
- In particular, staff ensure students develop their fluency in reading, supporting a smooth return to mainstream settings.
- Students are also supported to achieve well, so they can continue their learning beyond the academy. They are supported in thinking about their next steps, through careers and post-16 guidance, workshops, college visits, work experience days and expert individualised advice.
- The academy also ensures students still access a range of educational visits, workshops and after-school clubs.
The academy will continue to work closely with Ormiston and its wider school community to build on this positive Ofsted outcome.
Michelle Burgess-Allen, Principal said: “We are incredibly proud to be able to make a real difference for our young people. Our staff are committed to ensuring each student is provided with bespoke support to enable them to thrive during their time with us and in their life post-Beachcroft, so I was pleased to see this highlighted throughout the report.
“A vital part of our approach is having a strong belief in our students and knowing that with our support they can go on to achieve whatever they put their minds to. I look forward to continuing to work closely with staff within our academy, and across Ormiston Academies Trust, to ensure we are providing exceptional educational provision to young people across our local community.”
Wasim Butt, Director of Alternative Provision and Special Academies, said: “The positive feedback outlined by Ofsted is a true testament to the unwavering dedication of the whole team at Ormiston Beachcroft Academy, who continue to create a culture of aspiration and a supportive environment in which students can succeed.
“Our trust is driven by a commitment to having a positive impact on the life outcomes of every one of our students. I am delighted that Ofsted has recognised the work of the academy in achieving this mission by giving its students a second chance to thrive in their education and beyond.”