Stoke High School awarded good Ofsted status

23 May, 2022

Stoke High School has been praised by Ofsted for its “ambitious curriculum” and “vibrant community” as it is awarded a good in all categories.

The report highlights that student are proud to be part of a diverse community, while inspectors praised the academy’s culture, which is underpinned by an ethos of ‘respect, inspire and achieve’.

During the inspection, which took place on the 29 and 30 March, inspectors highlighted the way in which leaders, governors and the Trust have worked collaboratively to improve the school, undertaking effective and swift improvements to the culture and curriculum.

Throughout the report, inspectors praised a wide range of areas where the academy has worked exceptionally to provide students with the best opportunities to achieve. Notably:

Inspectors also noted the strong culture of respect amongst students and how diversity is celebrated within the academy, with something for everyone across all year groups
Meanwhile, the report notes that students enjoy a wide range of extra-curricular activities and are supported and celebrated by the academy for taking part in enrichment activities.
In particular, the academic curriculum is well supported by wider activities and experiences that promote a learning culture which ensures students learn new knowledge.
Inspectors also noted students with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are supported well and access the full curriculum. Teachers make clear adaptions to lessons to make them accessible and as a result students achieve as well as their peers.
Students also benefit from a high-quality personal, social, health and economic (PSHE) education programme, which provides valuable independent advice and guidance that prepares pupils well for their daily lives outside school. This is supported by a robust safeguarding system which ensures students know how to keep themselves safe

The positive report is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the staff, governors, Trust and the wider community who have worked tirelessly to ensure students are provided with the fundamental skills, knowledge and opportunities to succeed.

The academy’s leadership team led by principal Andrew Robinson, with the ongoing support of the Trust, are looking forward to continuing to build upon the strong foundations that have ensured the academy’s consistent improvement.

Andrew Robinson, principal said: “I am exceptionally proud of our staff and students, together we have transformed this school into a truly incredible place. Everything about our school has been revolutionised in the past 3 years and we are thrilled that Ofsted agree whole-heartedly with us. We’re determined to become the very best school in Ipswich and this incredible report confirms that we’re well on our way.”

“I want to say a huge thank you everyone in our school community, including the Trust who have been resolute in their support our academy achieving this fantastic result. I look forward to continuing to work closely with our students, parents, staff, governors, the team at the Trust and the wider community as we continue this positive journey.”

Aron Whiles, regional director east at Ormiston Academies Trust, said: “I want to offer my greatest congratulations to the whole community at Stoke High School on this fantastic result. I am proud to see the academy’s exceptional work in creating an ambitious curriculum and truly inclusive culture, highlighted clearly within the report.

“This overwhelmingly positive report is a true reflection of the relentless hard work and determination of the academy’s leadership team over the past few years, supported by the vibrant school community which was recognised by Ofsted.”

Nick Hudson, CEO of Ormiston Academies Trust, said: “I am incredibly pleased to see the achievements of Stoke High School’s staff and students be recognised in this latest report

“The leadership at the academy, supported by the Trust, has done a remarkable job of embodying our core mission of ensuring all students are provided with a great education. Their hard work and dedication to driving improvement has enabled them to create an environment where every student, regardless of their background and ability are given the tools to succeed.”

Category: News

Tags: Good grading, Ofsted inspection, Ofsted inspection good 2022, Stoke High School