Staff and students at Ashington Academy are celebrating after receiving a fantastic report from school inspectors Ofsted who have praised the remarkable transformation of this once inadequate school.
Now rated as ‘good’ in all areas, inspectors report that the Academy is providing a high-quality education to the school’s 967 students.
Since becoming an Academy in 2017 the school has embarked on a programme of rapid improvements under the guidance of its sponsor, the North East Learning Trust.
Inspectors specifically highlight the hard work of dedicated Trust leaders and school staff to address weaknesses concluding that students and staff now “recognise the positive changes that have happened over time” and are “proud of the changes they now see.” They also note the impact of the high expectations that are now placed on students, the effective support systems that are in place and the good behaviour seen across the school.
Speaking of the inspection, Headteacher Yvonne Weston said:
“I am incredibly proud that inspectors have confirmed what we have known for some time now – that Ashington Academy is providing an excellent education to the children of this community.
“The turnaround is the result of huge amounts of hard work from staff who have each gone above and beyond to break the school free from the burden of special measures. The school is now living up to its potential and is an excellent place for the children of Ashington and the surrounding communities to learn in a happy, safe, and supportive environment.
“I would also like to thank our excellent governors who have provided the challenge and support the school has needed to raise standards rapidly. We are really excited to now take the next step in our ambitious journey and continue to ensure that all learners thrive and reach their full potential.”
Toni Spoors, Executive Headteacher and Deputy CEO of school sponsors the North East Learning Trust, added:
“Ashington Academy is a wonderful school and I am glad Ofsted inspectors agree. The inspection is only part of our story, however, as improvements have been made in every corner of the school. We have transformed the building with capital investment from the Trust and Northumberland County Council, exam results have improved across the board and the range of extra-curricular activities children are offered is now exceptional.”
Chair of governors, Claire Riley, was full of praise for the school’s staff and students:
“The journey of improvement Ashington Academy has been on in recent years has transformed the performance of the school and the experience for our students. It is only right that this has been recognised by Ofsted and it is all credit to the teachers, leadership team and students. The local community can be rightly proud of their local school and have confidence that our focus will always be on supporting our students to reach their full potential.”
ENDS
More media information from Alix Vince, 0772073802, alix.vince@nelt.co.uk