Ofsted rates ARK Atwood Primary Academy ‘outstanding’ in all categories

Friday 26th July 2013

ARK Atwood Primary Academy in North Westminster has been graded outstanding in every category by Ofsted, the second of ARK’s 2011 primary openings to be rated outstanding in recent weeks.

The two-form entry primary academy opened in September 2011 just off the Harrow Road and is now over-subscribed. Reflecting the diverse local population, pupils have links with 26 countries, many speaking English as a second language. An above average proportion of children are eligible for pupil premium.

The Ofsted inspectors said:  “Inspirational leadership by the head teacher, supported by the committed team of teachers, non-teaching staff and governors, has created an excellent learning environment in which all pupils can fulfil their potential. There have been exceptional developments in all aspects of the academy since it opened.”

Head teacher Daniel Upfield said: “I’d like to thank staff, parents and pupils for all the hard work they’ve put in to make ARK Atwood a success. The biggest accolade for us was to read on Ofsted’s parent view survey that 100% of parents responding would recommend the school to their friends.  We want every child to achieve highly and we also want to be a happy school where children look forward to coming to school every day. That’s what success means for us.”

Secretary of State for Education, Michael Gove MP said: “ARK Atwood’s pupils and teachers can be incredibly proud of their achievement. This is the second ‘outstanding’ Ofsted result for ARK’s free schools, underlining their excellence and consistent performance.   Teachers at ARK Atwood demonstrate a complete commitment to educating our young people to the very highest standard. This remarkable school provides its pupils with the best possible start in life and I congratulate them on their result.”

Lucy Heller, ARK Schools Managing Director said: “We’re all really proud of ARK Atwood’s achievements so far. Daniel Upfield and his team set out to create an outstanding community school for local children with high expectations as its defining feature. We’re delighted that Ofsted have recognised their success.”

You can read the full Ofsted report here.