Bolingbroke Academy in Clapham Junction has today been endorsed by Ofsted, the independent inspector of schools, as a good school. Opened only 15 months ago, the Ofsted report praised the school as providing students with “a springboard to a successful future.”
The report comments on the leadership of the school, saying that “the principal has established a clear vision, ethos and culture for the academy. This has allowed the academy to develop a very strong and consistent message of ambition and excellence throughout its community. This has in turn developed very strong foundations for the future.”
Claire Edis, Principal of Bolingbroke Academy, said: “Our school has high aspirations for every child – to give them the knowledge and ambition to be able to go to university or the career of their choice. Pupils and staff have worked incredibly hard over the past few months, so it is fantastic to get this endorsement from Ofsted. I also want to thank parents and carers for their support and all those who took the time to complete the Parent View survey.”
Having opened last September, Bolingbroke Academy has now become the third most popular school for Wandsworth residents. Praised as good in every category, the inspection team particularly highlighted the quality of teaching and learning: “Good and outstanding teaching is characterised by a rapid pace and high levels of challenge. Skilful questioning checks students’ learning and probes and pushes them to think more deeply.”
An ethos of good behaviour is consistent in and out of lessons: “Respect for others, themselves and their new facilities is a key component of this ethos. All academy staff take an active involvement in the management and organisation of students; as a result of this, students are polite and courteous at all times.”
Students feel proud to attend Bolingbroke, and the “extensive and varied curriculum” allows all students to engage and make good progress in subjects like English, mathematics and science, while additional activities “enrich their life experience.”
The inspectors also singled out the support that Bolingbroke Academy receives from the ARK network, which runs a group of 27 high-performing schools. “This support has proved invaluable in developing a new academy in the midst of a building programme. The support has improved the outcomes for students who attend the academy.”
Michael Clark, Chair of Governors at Bolingbroke Academy, said: “This is an excellent Ofsted report and recognises the commitment of the whole school community who are working incredibly hard to ensure all our students thrive at Bolingbroke Academy.”
Due to its continuing popularity with parents, the school will be recruiting new teaching staff from January. 12 of the 13 ARK academies so far inspected by Ofsted are rated good or outstanding.
The full Ofsted report can be read here.