For the first time in its history – Pool Hayes Academy has been judged ‘Good’ by Ofsted.
Pupils, staff and parents are celebrating today after Ofsted rated Pool Hayes Academy “Good”, recognising its significant improvement since the last inspection in 2018. Pool Hayes Academy had never previously been judged “Good” by Ofsted since the school opened in 1963.
Ofsted described the academy as, “a calm and caring school” and praised how leaders, “are creating a culture of excellence and self-improvement.” They also praised pupils’ behaviour, “In lessons, pupils behave well and focus on their learning.”
The glowing report, which followed a two-day inspection carried out on 26th & 27th April, noted that a strong curriculum lay at the foundation of the academy’s success, “Leaders are developing an ambitious curriculum that puts pupils’ development at its heart.” Furthermore, the academy was praised for “helping pupils develop a love of reading.”
The inspection team also noted the dedication and support staff offer pupils, “Teachers take time to get to know each pupil well. Pupils build strong, positive relationships with their teachers.” They noted that as a result, “Pupils are resilient to setbacks and strive to achieve their best.”
Pool Hayes is sponsored by Academy Transformation Trust (ATT) and the report acknowledged the positive and supportive relationship between the academy and its sponsor, “The Principal, supported by the multi-academy trust, has overseen a period of rapid improvement at the school.”
The report also praised Pool Hayes Academy for its work with pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Inspectors noted that teachers, “adapt their teaching skillfully, to ensure all pupils can access the challenging work give to them”. It was further noted that, “Because of this, pupils with SEND make strong progress.”
The report praises the wider cultural impact of the academy. In particular the range of curricular opportunities, “there is a wide range of opportunities for pupils and sixth form pupils to develop their passion out of the classroom.”
What was particularly pleasing are the comments the inspectors made around the effectiveness of safeguarding at the academy. They stated that, “staff act quickly if they have a concern, no matter how small” and “Leaders are resolute. They follow though all concerns raised and make sure that pupils receive the support they need to stay as safe as possible.”
Garry Trott, ATT Director of Secondary Education, said:
“We are delighted that the transformation of Pool Hayes, led by the Principal and his team, has been acknowledged in such a positive report. It is fantastic for pupils and parents, that there is now such a strong academy at the heart of the community. We look forward to working alongside Pool Hayes as it continues on its successful journey.”
Derek Trimmer, ATT National Education Director, said:
This is a wonderful achievement for all of the staff, parents and pupils of the academy and I am delighted to see their hard work recognised with such a positive report. But this is also a wonderful result for the community as it is the first time in the history of the school that Pool Hayes has been judged as a good school by OFSTED. Congratulations all!
