At a recent monitoring inspection, Ofsted inspectors found that there was enough evidence of improved performance to suggest that the school could be judged Outstanding if they were to carry out a Section 5 inspection now.  The academy is currently judged as Good.

Ofsted inspectors visited Northern Education Trust The Grangefield Academy on 1 and 2 December 2021, where they found an inclusive community in which students flourish.  They noted the culture of aspiration and celebration, where staff encourage all students to do their best, and accept no excuses; as well as the purposeful atmosphere in classrooms, where students are engaged, eager to learn and keen to do well.  Low-level disruption is not tolerated and students frequently celebrate each other’s success with applause.

Inspectors commented that “The Trust motto of ‘outcomes focused, child centred and students’ wellbeing’ is definitely at the heart of this school.  Leaders have high expectations of what students can achieve and students rise to meet these. Students explained that staff care about them and want to do well.  Strong relationships between staff and students are obvious.”

Students emphatically told inspectors that they feel safe in school, with parents and staff agreeing.  Inspectors said that “Behaviour around the school is calm and students are respectful.  Leaders are meticulous in tracking vulnerable students, and students are well taught about how to keep themselves safe from risk, including online.  Leaders are tenacious in securing external support when it is needed.”

The academy’s focus on reading was of particular interest to inspectors, who felt it was a considerable strength of the school, noting that staff reinforced the importance of reading through all aspects of school life.  They also identified the broad and ambitious curriculum that students enjoy, as well as the rigorous routines that teachers follow to help students remember more.   Inspectors also noted how well students are prepared for life beyond school, with the ‘life’ lessons being given the same status as other curriculum subjects, ensuring students learn important messages around tolerance, respect and diversity.

Kate Wright, Principal said: “We are absolutely delighted that the Ofsted report has recognised the tremendous improvements at The Grangefield Academy.  The academy has increased significantly in student numbers since the last inspection, and staff have worked extremely hard to ensure all students are well supported and achieve excellent outcomes.  The Trust’s school improvement model has enabled the academy to grow and flourish, and my thanks go to the senior leaders, Trustees and governors, and staff for their commitment and support.  My thanks also go, of course, to our wonderful students and their families.  Watching our young people make great progress through their time with us is an honour, and makes me very proud to be a part of that development.”

Rob Tarn, Chief Executive added: “It is very rare for an Ofsted report to suggest that a school could be judged Outstanding at its next section 5 inspection, and I am thrilled that the inspectors were so impressed in their findings at The Grangefield Academy that they felt confident to say that.  This follows on from the recent inspection at the Trust’s other secondary academy in Stockton – North Shore Academy, which soared from Requires Improvement to Outstanding.  Along with the Executive Principal of both academies, Andrew Murphy, and the rest of the senior leadership team at The Grangefield Academy, we are determined that the improvements noted by Ofsted continue and are further built on, to ensure the Trust does it utmost to ensure the students of the Stockton area improve their life chances.”

Visit the following link to read further information about The Grangefield Academy’s Ofsted Report on the Ofsted website: https://reports.ofsted.gov.uk/provider/23/139673