Ofsted salutes 'exemplary' behaviour and 'unrelenting' drive for excellence at Oldham Academy North

Students, staff and families at E-ACT The Oldham Academy North (TOAN) are celebrating following an exceptional Ofsted report.

The outcome praises the academy’s “unrelenting pursuit of excellence” and describes pupils’ behaviour as “typically exemplary”.

In an inspection held last month, Ofsted found that pupils are thriving in a calm, respectful, and ambitious environment where they “feel safe, work hard, and are proud to belong”.

Relationships between staff and students were described as “respectful and polite”, and Ofsted noted that pupils “thoroughly enjoy coming to school”.

The report praises the academy’s high aspirations, inclusive ethos, and strong leadership.

Ofsted commended the academy’s approach, noting that: “Pupils, including disadvantaged pupils, rise to meet the school’s very high expectations.”

Although this was an ungraded inspection - a routine visit for schools previously judged ‘Good’ to ensure standards have been maintained - inspectors found strong evidence that TOAN may have improved significantly across all areas since its last full inspection in 2020.

The school will receive a full graded inspection in due course.

Inspectors highlighted pupils’ enthusiasm for learning and school life, stating: “Pupils thoroughly enjoy coming to school.

"They are happy and feel safe.

"Relationships between pupils and staff are respectful and polite.

"Pupils behave very well in class and work very hard.”

They also commented on the academy’s strong community spirit:

“Pupils enjoy socialising with each other at breaktimes and lunchtimes. They are exceptionally proud of their school and feel valued. This gives them a strong sense of belonging.”

Pupils' behaviour and attitudes to learning were also praised, with the report noting: “Pupils’ behaviour is typically exemplary… this contributes to a calm and orderly atmosphere that enables pupils to learn.”

Andrea Atkinson, education director at E-ACT, said: “We are thrilled that Ofsted has recognised the significant progress we’ve made since TOAN was last inspected.

"Being previously judged overall ‘Good’ for effectiveness set a strong foundation, and this report shows how far the team has come in delivering an exceptional experience for every child.

“We are especially proud that inspectors recognised the sense of safety, belonging and ambition our pupils experience every day.

"It’s a testament to the commitment of our entire community - staff, families and of course, our brilliant pupils.

"This report reflects their hard work, resilience and belief in what we’re building together in Oldham.”

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