News24th May 2018
Ark Helenswood Academy in Hastings is today celebrating its Ofsted report, which has graded the secondary school as good after its recent inspection. The school was previously deemed as requires improvement.
The Ofsted inspectors said: ‘Senior leaders, governors and members of the Ark schools multi-academy trust have worked with dedication to rapidly improve the school. Together they are committed to the school’s continued improvement.’
They added: ‘Leaders’ focus is on providing good-quality teaching in the classroom, along with additional teaching which is targeted carefully at the areas pupils need to improve. As a result, pupils make rapid progress and standards are rising. Similarly, there is a strong provision to meet the needs of pupils who have SEN and/or disabilities.’
Ofsted inspectors also recognised that ‘middle leaders feel valued and well guided’ and ‘…as a result, the quality of teaching within departments and across the school is consistently strong.’
With regards to the Ark sixth form, Ofsted inspectors said: ‘Standards in the sixth form are rising rapidly as a result of effective leadership and improved teaching.’
Principal Tracy Dohel said: “We’re thrilled that Ofsted has endorsed the hard work of all our staff and students at Ark Helenswood. It’s an exciting time for the school, which, with its good rating coupled with its results, can proudly proclaim itself the best secondary school in Hastings.”
Yvonne Powell, Executive Principal of Ark Helenswood said: “This is fantastic news for the school and down to the hard work and dedication of Principal Tracy Dohel and her staff who have been working tirelessly to bring improvement and positive change to the school. We recognise there is still more work to do and we look forward to building on this success as we continue to strive for excellence.”
Read the full Ofsted report here: Ark Helenswood Academy 10032891 final pdf.pdf