A ‘UNIQUE’ school in the heart of Newcastle has been graded ‘Good’ by Ofsted inspectors.
Little more than two years ago North East Future University Technical College (NEF UTC) was graded ‘Requires Improvement’ – it has now been graded ‘Good’ in all areas.
Principal Dan Sydes said the rapid improvement had been achieved through the commitment and dedication of his team and the support of external organisations.
Dan said: “We’re thrilled that Ofsted recognised the improvements made through the hard work of everybody here. Ofsted graded us ‘Good’ in every category – behaviour and attitudes; personal development, leadership and management and sixth-form provision.
“We do things differently here and stuck to our values and ambitions while going back to basics to make the improvements needed. Our unique approach has always been to ensure every student receives a high-quality education and a sector-leading careers programme, which means our students are particularly well prepared for the world of work.
“Ofsted recognised the quality of our careers support and how closely we work with our employer partners, especially those in our areas of specialism – the digital and health science sectors.
“This new Ofsted report is vindication of our approach – we remained true to our values and principles in the wake of our previous Ofsted inspection and what’s particularly gratifying is that it’s the same leadership team that has delivered the improvements. We’ve also worked with some great external advisers who have helped us hugely.”
The latest inspection was completed in May and inspectors concluded: “Pupils enjoy attending the UTC. Pupils say they are ‘seen’ and valued.
“Pupils enjoy a calm and purposeful learning environment. Pupils appreciate how quickly the school gets to know them and they understand the high expectations that the school has for their achievement.
“The school has developed a clear strategy for improvement. The governors, trust and the UTC are driven by the wish to provide a unique experience for pupils. Trustees and governors have a precise understanding of the school’s strengths and development areas.
They provide effective support and challenge. As a result, standards are consistently rising. Staff enjoy working at the school.
“Pupils benefit from links with employer partners. These rich experiences help pupils develop a deep understanding of the world of work.”
NEF UTC is part of the Tyne Coast Academy Trust. Trust Chair Les Watson said: “The Ofsted judgement of Good in all areas is much deserved recognition for the hard work and commitment from both staff and students over the past two years.”
After NEF UTC’s previous Ofsted inspection, the leadership team turned to The Gorse Academies Trust for guidance and support.
Dan added: “The Gorse Trust was terrific to work with and we all learned so much from them. What was particularly impressive was that they didn’t try to change our approach, but helped us make improvements while still adhering to our vision, values and ambition.”
Newcastle Central and West MP Chi Onwurah, who opened the school in 2019, visited again shortly after the Ofsted inspection and spoke to staff and students.
For more information about NEF UTC, or the school’s forthcoming Open Day on Thursday, June 26, go to https://www.nef.tynecoast.academy The website also has a link to the school’s full Ofsted report.