Ofsted praise for school where ‘pupils are well cared for’
Pictured L - R: Olivia Randle (Y8), Isabella O'Connor (Y9), Andy Scruby (Lead Principal), Emelia Salmon (Y9) & Shaun Cudjoe (Y9)
Ofsted has praised Outwood Academy Kirkby in its first inspection since joining the Outwood Family of Schools in 2022. Formerly Kirkby College, the school had been rated as ‘Inadequate’ in all areas by Ofsted due to factors including poor behaviour, low expectations, bullying and lack of support for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).
A two-day inspection took place in May, resulting in outcomes of ‘Good’ for the school’s leadership and management, quality of education and personal development. Inspectors praised the school for the improvement in behaviour and recognised the Trust's support for leaders, which has led to improvements in all areas of provision since becoming part of the family of schools.
The report opens saying, ‘The school is aspirational for pupils to succeed in all areas of their education. It has worked well to strengthen the curriculum considerably. As a result pupils’ achievement is improving significantly.’
Highlights of the report include:
Pupils are well cared for at Outwood Academy Kirkby. They are safe and enjoy good relationships with staff.
There are very high expectations for pupils’ behaviour and well-established routines that support good behaviour.
The curriculum is broad and ambitious. Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) follow the same curriculum as their peers.
Staff identify the needs of pupils with SEND quickly and accurately. A range of strategies to support these pupils are implemented effectively. Pupils with SEND achieve well.
Reading is a priority. Pupils who need extra support with reading are identified swiftly.
Pupils benefit from detailed guidance about the range of choices for their next stages in education and training, as well as information about potential future careers.
The school monitors attendance carefully. Dedicated staff work closely with pupils and their families to encourage all pupils to attend school frequently.
Andy Scruby, Lead Principal for Outwood Academy Kirkby, said:
“The outcome of the Ofsted inspection is testament to the collective hard work of our staff and students and is a fantastic reflection of the transformational journey the school has been on since becoming a part of the Outwood family.
“With this external validation from Ofsted recognising our dedication and vision for achieving fantastic outcomes and experiences for our students, we look forward - without complacency - to continuing our work with families and the local community, ensuring Outwood Academy Kirkby is a very special place where students can achieve their full potential.”
