Five Acres High School Achieves Exceptional Ofsted Outcome in Latest Inspection

The latest report recognises the significant improvements that have been made across the school, particularly in the quality and impact of its personal development provision, the strength of its curriculum, outcomes for pupils, and the extensive support provided to students and families.

Inspectors made the following key points in their report:

The school's personal development and wellbeing provision was recognised as exceptional. Inspectors praised the deeply embedded culture that prioritises pupils' personal growth, character development and wellbeing in all aspects of school life. Pupils develop remarkable confidence and resilience and leave the school exceptionally well prepared for adulthood.

Leaders have created a culture in which pupils feel a strong sense of belonging, safety and pride in their school. Pupils embrace the school's values of determination, confidence, creativity, ambition and respect, and demonstrate these qualities in their daily lives.

Academic achievement is strong, with pupils making excellent progress through an ambitious curriculum. Outcomes in English and mathematics are well above national averages, including for disadvantaged pupils. Inspectors recognised the school's success in ensuring that pupils, regardless of their starting points, are very well prepared for their next steps in education, employment or training.

The school's commitment to inclusion is evident and the curriculum has been expertly tailored to meet the needs of all learners. Staff know pupils well and work consistently to overcome barriers to learning and wellbeing. Inspectors praised the school's support for disadvantaged pupils, pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, young carers and those known to social care. 

The report highlighted the school's outstanding pastoral support, with pupils and parents praising the dedication of staff. Inspectors also recognised pupils' excellent behaviour and attendance, alongside the extensive opportunities available to develop leadership skills, contribute to the local community and participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities.

Leadership and governance were also commended. Inspectors found that leaders have high expectations, carefully evaluate the impact of their work and are committed to continuous improvement. Staff value the extensive professional development opportunities available to them and have strong confidence in the school's leadership.

Simon Phelps, Headteacher, said: "This report reflects the dedication and care shown every day by our staff, pupils and wider community working in partnership together. We are particularly proud that inspectors recognised our personal development provision as exceptional. Since our last inspection, we have worked tirelessly to strengthen every aspect of the school, and this outcome is testament to that collective effort. We remain committed to building on this success, and are grateful for the continued support." 

Will Smith OBE, CEO of the Greenshaw Learning Trust, said: "This report is a wonderful recognition of the progress made by the entire Five Acres High School community. The school's commitment to academic excellence and the personal development of every young person is clear throughout the inspection findings. We are incredibly proud of what has been achieved."

Read the full Ofsted report here. For more information about Five Acres High School, visit the school's website.