Ofsted praise for school where ‘staff make sure pupils feel valued and welcomed’

Ofsted has praised Outwood Academy Normanby following a two-day inspection in June, stating that “Pupils are safe in this welcoming school. They have an adult who they can talk to if needed. Staff and pupils build positive relationships over time.”

Inspectors praised the school in areas relating to the personal development and wellbeing programme, noting popular enrichment clubs and the Outwood ‘Out There' community projects. Inspectors were impressed with the careers programme, saying “Pupils of all ages have a clear understanding of how their education prepares them for future work or further education. This helps to prepare them for their next steps.”

Highlights of the report include:

• Staff make sure pupils feel valued and welcomed.

• Leaders identify the support that pupils require if they have special educational needs and/or disabilities.

• Leaders have taken action to bring about improvement in a number of crucial areas. With support from the trust, leaders have taken firm and decisive action in the best interests of pupils.

• Staff work successfully with external partners to plan and implement support for pupils. 

• The school’s programme for personal development helps pupils learn about important topics like relationships, safety, and life beyond school. 

• Pupils’ attainment is improving, including for disadvantaged pupils.

• Leaders offer pupils a range of extra opportunities. Pupils encounter different experiences through thoughtful trips and visits, as well as community-focused activities. 

• Pupils appreciate the chance to influence life in the local area and give back through ‘Outwood out there’ activities.

• Leaders have made considerable improvements to the behaviour of pupils since the last inspection.

Mark Robinson, principal at Outwood Academy Normanby, said: 

“I am pleased that the positive progress made across our school, particularly in safeguarding, inclusion, personal development, and improving behaviour, has been recognised, and I want to thank our parents and entire school community for their ongoing support. 

“While Ofsted highlighted these strong foundations, the report also identifies areas where we must do better; we fully acknowledge these necessary improvements and remain firmly committed to working hand-in-hand with our families so every child attends regularly, feels supported, and achieves their full potential.”