Pupils at Ormiston Bridge Academy, an alternative provision (AP) academy in London are thriving in a school where ambition, support and opportunity go hand in hand, according to a glowing new Ofsted report.
Following its latest inspection, the academy has received good in all areas, with inspectors recognising its carefully planned curriculum, ambitious expectations and highly effective support, which together ensure pupils achieve well and are prepared for the future.
The report highlights that “the school rightly takes an ambitious view of what pupils can achieve” and that “the school has planned the curriculum carefully to ensure that pupils build step by step on what they know.” Inspectors also found that “staff have a good understanding of pupils’ needs and starting points. This helps to ensure that pupils get the education, social and mental health support they need.”
Other key highlights from the report include:
- “Pupils integrate successfully into mainstream schools, produce work of a high quality, and develop positive attitudes towards further education, employment and apprenticeships.”
- “Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) receive strong support. Staff identify pupils’ needs effectively.”
- “Reading is prioritised across the whole school. Staff are skilled in teaching phonics to primary pupils through specific lessons. Older pupils get plenty of practice to develop their reading fluency.”
- “The school helps pupils to find the right education and career pathways for them. It provides a range of work experience opportunities, which help prepare pupils for the world beyond school.”
- “The school works in partnership with external agencies to enrich the curriculum and provide further opportunities for pupils. For example, pupils develop their social communication skills through work with a local football club.”
- “Pupils feel safe and comfortable because of the school’s positive culture.”
- “Staff are empathetic and patient. They encourage pupils to make a fresh start as they join the provision.”
- “Due to highly effective relationships, pupils trust staff and leaders to help them.”
- “Staff consistently apply high expectations for behaviour. For instance, staff ensure that pupils’ language is respectful. This helps pupils learn to communicate in a way that prepares them well for the future.”
- “The school’s approach to supporting pupils’ behaviour is successful. It reflects the needs and emotional maturity of pupils.”
- “Staff know pupils well and help them to learn to manage their feelings. This helps pupils return to their mainstream school, or to start at a new school when they are ready.”
Sophia Martin, Principal at Ormiston Bridge Academy, said: “We are incredibly proud of this Ofsted outcome, which reflects the dedication and commitment of our entire school community. Our pupils, staff and families work together to ensure every child has the chance to succeed, and it is wonderful to see this recognised so strongly by inspectors.
“This report highlights the welcoming, supportive and ambitious culture we have built at Ormiston Bridge Academy, which enables our pupils not only to learn well but also to grow as individuals who are ready for their next steps.”
Wasim Butt, National Director of AP and Special Academies at Ormiston Academies Trust, said: “This is a fantastic achievement for Ormiston Bridge Academy. The report rightly recognises the strength of its leadership, the quality of its teaching and support and the nurturing environment it provides for all young people. I look forward to seeing the academy go from strength to strength.”
Click here for the Ofsted inspection report.