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School maintains ‘Good’ rating in glowing Ofsted report
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Inspectors praised pupils who “achieve highly” and exhibit “exemplary behaviour”
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Report notes “highly ambitious” curriculum put in place by supportive, expert leadership
Students and staff at Northampton Academy are celebrating after maintaining a ‘Good’ rating from Ofsted in a recent short inspection, with inspectors saying there is enough evidence to suggest the school could be ‘Outstanding’ in a full inspection.
Throughout the glowing report, inspectors highlighted the improved performance over the past few years. They noted that “pupils have high expectations of themselves and are consistently motivated by high-quality learning”. Inspectors also commented on pupils’ “exemplary behaviour” and noted that they are “highly enthusiastic about attending” school, all feeling “included in the school community”.
In terms of teaching at the academy, the report said that “leaders have ensured the curriculum is highly ambitious” and allows pupils to “develop strong personal values of determination, respect and ambition”. Inspectors reported that teachers have “strong subject knowledge”, instilling in pupils a sense of confidence when talking about their learning and encouraging them to “aim high”.
As well as being a place that fosters strong academic outcomes, inspectors commented on the variety of opportunities and experiences available to pupils as part of the school’s wider enrichment programme. They said that “character development is at the heart of the school’s work” and used examples of students becoming Anti-Bullying Ambassadors and joining the Student Council to show what this means in practice.
Year 9 student Edwin, who is part of the Nucleus STEM cohort, said:
“It is a pleasure being a student at Northampton Academy. I really enjoy the STEM curriculum and I’m very proud to be a student of this school. The core values of respect, determination and ambition really help to encourage students to strive to be the best that they can be.”
Nat Parnell, Principal at Northampton Academy, said:
“I am proud of our recent Ofsted report and it is a testament to the hard work of our students, staff and the support of our parents and carers, that the inspectors’ feedback was so strong. What is particularly pleasing is that the inspectors saw for themselves how much our students enjoy being part of our school community and thrive in their learning.
“As well as having the highest academic aspirations for them, we are determined to help our students develop into respectful, articulate and well-rounded young people. Ofsted’s comments show what an impact this is having and we look forward to building on this further as we strive to become ‘Outstanding’ in the near future.”