Royton and Crompton Academy celebrates Ofsted success
Date published: 13 October 2025
Ofsted assessed E-ACT Royton and Crompton in four areas: the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management
Staff and students at E-ACT Royton and Crompton Academy are celebrating following its latest Ofsted inspection, which has rated the school ‘Good’ across all areas, with an ‘Outstanding’ rating for personal development.
That's the first time the academy has achieved a Good rating overall in 14 years.
Ofsted assessed E-ACT Royton and Crompton in four areas: the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management.
The inspection report highlights that pupils are “proud ambassadors for the school” and make “a strong contribution to the calm and respectful atmosphere that exists at the school.”
Inspectors also noted that pupils “flourish here and they are happy,” and that staff provide “effective support to the small number of pupils that need help to improve their attendance,” resulting in higher attendance rates.
Personal development is a particular strength. Inspectors observed that it is “central to the school’s commitment to equipping pupils to thrive as resilient, independent citizens” and that the school “prepares pupils exceptionally well for adulthood.”
Pupils benefit from a wide range of opportunities, taking on roles such as prefects, sports leaders, and reading ambassadors, as well as enjoying activities including sports, chess, strategy gaming, and book club, which help them develop their talents and interests.
The report also praises the school’s curriculum and teaching, noting that “the school has designed an ambitious curriculum” and that “most pupils are well prepared for each stage in their education.”
Those with special educational needs and/or disabilities receive the guidance they need to succeed, while carefully chosen books help pupils become confident readers and understand modern British life.
Inspectors highlighted the supportive and welcoming culture fostered by leaders and trustees, noting that “everyone is welcomed and valued.” Staff benefit from a comprehensive package of training that helps them support pupils effectively.
Headteacher Gemma Cottingham said: “This report is a real celebration of everything our students, staff, and families do every day.
"Getting Good ratings across the board – and Outstanding for personal development – for the first time in 14 years feels like a wonderful milestone for our school.
"It shows the progress we’ve made together as a community and the supportive, positive environment we all work hard to create.
"We’re really proud of what our pupils are achieving and can’t wait to see them continue to grow, learn, and flourish.”
E-ACT’s Regional Education Director, Andrea Atkinson, who was previously headteacher at Royton and Crompton, added: “Having led Royton and Crompton myself, I have always known what a brilliant school this is, and it’s fantastic to see that recognised by Ofsted.
"Gemma and her team have worked incredibly hard for the pupils, and this report is a real testament to their dedication and the positive, ambitious culture they’ve built.
"I’m very proud of what they’ve achieved together.”
Inspectors recognised the school’s dedication to supporting every pupil.
At E-ACT Royton and Crompton Academy, Ofsted has confirmed that students grow in confidence, explore their talents through a wide range of activities, and develop the skills they need for the next steps in their education and life beyond the classroom.
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