Outwood Academy Easingwold makes history as it is transformed to Outstanding

Ofsted says the academy is a school “where pupils are encouraged to excel”

Staff and students at Outwood Academy Easingwold have today made history after Ofsted rated their school as Outstanding – in its first inspection since it was judged to be failing.

Outwood Grange Academies Trust was asked to take on the school five years ago, a year after Ofsted had placed it in Special Measures. In 2016, inspectors had criticised behaviour and teaching, and said that students from disadvantaged backgrounds in particular were being let down.

However, the academy has since been transformed and today’s report means it has become the first 11-18 school in the country to jump straight from Special Measures to Outstanding since Ofsted introduced its new Education Inspection Framework in 2019.

 In its report, Ofsted praises the school across the board, including saying that:

 ●        “Outwood Academy Easingwold is an aspirational and nurturing environment where pupils are encouraged to excel. Staff have the highest expectations of what pupils can achieve and ensure that they meet them.”

 ●        “Leaders insist that academic success is underpinned by a commitment to the well-being of pupils. This is a caring community where pupils and staff value and appreciate each other. Sixth-form students act as mentors to younger pupils who need extra support.”

 ●        “Parents and carers praise the ‘fantastic’ commitment of staff to their children’s development, particularly vulnerable pupils and those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).”

 ●        “The majority of pupils behave well. Pupils are keen and enthusiastic to learn. Staff encourage pupils to manage their own behaviour and make the right choices.”

 ●        “Students in the sixth form [also judged to be Outstanding] have exceptionally positive attitudes towards their studies. They are justifiably proud of their achievements.”

 ●        “Bullying is rare and is not tolerated. Any incidents are tackled decisively by leaders.”

 ●        “Leaders at all levels are passionate about providing the best possible education for pupils. They have acted decisively and with integrity. Leaders [from Outwood Grange Academies Trust] are highly skilled in monitoring the effectiveness of the school.”

 Ofsted also highlighted the ambitious, knowledge-rich curriculum, while the prioritisation of reading was also recognised. The report stated that “there is an exceptionally strong reading culture evident across the school”. Careers education was also regarded as a major strength.

 Laura Eddery, the Principal of Outwood Academy Easingwold, said:

 “I am extremely proud of our wonderful students – they are an inspiration to us – and of our amazing staff, who go above and beyond each and every day to provide an exceptional education and who support our students so well. I would also like to pay special thanks to our students’ families for their invaluable support.

 “The Ofsted judgement of Outstanding is so great for our community. However, while we are truly delighted with the report and are enjoying this very special moment, we are deeply committed to improving the school even more so our students continue to thrive academically and personally.”

 Lynn James, who has worked closely with the academy as Executive Principal since the school joined Outwood Grange Academies Trust, said:

 “It is a remarkable achievement to gain an Outstanding judgement from a position of Special Measures – and with a pandemic along the journey.

 “It is testament to courageous leadership - knowing what needs to be done, engaging all parties in that vision and being persistent in the shared delivery and high expectations that enable an exceptional education for our young people. Thank you to all who have been a part of this transformation.”