Following a recent inspection by Ofsted, Ark Academy has been judged 'Outstanding' in all areas.
The visit was carried out under the new Ofsted framework, which has seen many schools downgraded, but Ark Academy retained its rating.
The report stated, "Pupils relish coming to this school. From Nursery through to the sixth form, pupils are taught to be caring, polite, hard-working and motivated members of society. This culture runs like a golden thread throughout this large school. Staff are ambitious for pupils to excel. Pupils strive to meet these expectations, knowing that staff are there to support them every step of the way. Pupils are happy and kept safe."
Looking at the leadership, inspectors felt, "Leaders have a clear vision to provide pupils with an excellent education. This vision is shared by staff, who are proud to make a difference to pupils' lives. Leaders have designed a curriculum that is broad and rich in knowledge. This starts in the early years and continues all the way through to the sixth form. In all subjects, pupils are equipped with the knowledge and skills that they will need to be successful in the future."
In addressing the needs of SEND students, the report said, "Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities access the full curriculum. This is because, in all phases of the school, these pupils receive excellent support. Staff know pupils and their individual needs well. They tailor lessons to meet pupils' specific needs, with additional well-targeted support from teaching assistants when needed."
Inspectors also recognised positive relations between students and teachers, "Excellent professional relationships between pupils and staff underpin the calm environment around the school. Pupils have a really positive attitude to their learning. Their determination to succeed shines through. Leaders support pupils to manage their own behaviour well."
Executive Principal, Delia Smith OBE, said:
"The report recognises the hard work and high expectations that lead to excellent academic outcomes, alongside the importance of developing our pupils' character in our caring and supportive community, where the wellbeing of both students and staff is so important. I want to thank our students, staff, parents, trustees and governors for their ongoing support and dedication.
"The new framework is much more rigorous, and judgements are much harder to attain; combined with the challenges of a global pandemic, it makes me even more overwhelmingly proud of our success."
Jerry Collins Ark’s Director of Secondary said:
"We are delighted with this report and are genuinely proud of the whole school community. Inspectors recognised Ark Academy as a school where young people are happy and can flourish."
The inspection took place on 22nd and 23rd February 2022. The full report can be found on the Ofsted website.