Farnborough Spencer Academy’s pupils and staff are proud after receiving a turnaround ‘Good’ Ofsted report across all four judgments.
These included Quality of education, leadership, behaviour and attitudes, and personal development, during a full section 5 inspection, the first since joining Spencer Academies Trust in 2018.
The academy, located in Clifton, is part of the Spencer Academies Trust.
The inspection was designed to re-assess the academy’s status after the predecessor school received two inadequate Ofsted gradings in 2013 and 2017.
This was the first full inspection following the conversion, and everyone involved was thrilled to see the transformation in status.
His Majesty’s Inspector commented that the academy has “improved significantly. Leaders including leaders from the Trust, lead with clear moral purpose.”
During the inspection, the academy was applauded for offering its pupils a positive learning environment, “This school is a warm and happy learning community where everyone can be themselves.
“Pupils and staff pledge to be proud of the school, and they are.
“Pupils treat each other with respect and kindness. They laugh and smile. They enjoy positive relationships with staff who know them well. Pupils feel safe and cared for.”
The inspector praised the curriculum offering that has been implemented across the academy, “The school is ambitious for all pupils. The curriculum is designed to help pupils to succeed in education and in life. Pupils want to learn.”
It was also acknowledged that “Pupils study a broad, ambitious curriculum. In key stage 3, pupils study a rich curriculum that allows them to make informed choices about their next steps.”
Graeme Smith, Principal of Farnborough Spencer Academy said;
“I would like to thank and congratulate pupils, staff, parents, the governors and The Spencer Academies Trust for their fantastic efforts in making our Academy thrive.
“When I arrived here, I said I wanted Clifton to have a great Academy at the heart of its community.
“The report shows that they do and it reflects the rapid improvement that has been made since we joined the trust. We are so proud.”
Positive feedback around personal development and opportunities was also highlighted in the report, “Pupils benefit from a strong programme of personal development.
This helps prepare pupils well for their next steps. The school provides a wide range of extra-curricular activities, including the dance and LGBTQI+ clubs.”
JoAnne Charlton, Chair of Governors at Farnborough Spencer Academy said;
“The results of the 2022 Ofsted inspection reflect the sheer determination and commitment of the staff, supported by the Trust and governors.
“The Farnborough Spencer Academy has undertaken a complete transformation leading to a well-deserved outcome. We are Proud!”
Paul West, CEO of Spencer Academies Trust, was delighted with the inspection;
“We are extremely proud of everyone at Farnborough Spencer Academy. Graeme and the team have brought about remarkable change since joining the Trust, through the implementation of strong leadership, quality teaching and effective support, they have secured a deserved good report at their first inspection.”
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