New Witham St Hughs Academy earns 'outstanding' Ofsted rating

An academy has received "outstanding" ratings across the board in its first Ofsted inspection since converting from a primary school.

Witham St Hughs Academy, in Muntjac Way, received the highest possible grading in each of the inspection's categories.

Formerly a primary school, it converted to academy status in April. When last judged as a local authority-maintained school, it was judged to be "good overall with outstanding features".

The latest Ofsted inspection was led by Simon Griffiths, who visited the school on December 6 and 7, observing all teachers across 18 lessons and quizzing more than 30 parents and carers for their views.

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In his report, Mr Griffiths particularly praised the academy for preparing its pupils for the next stage in their education and offering a varied yet exciting range of activities for each subject.

Pupils are also leaving the school with higher than average English and maths grades, and overall results are improving year on year.

Mr Griffiths said: "Achievement is outstanding because all groups of pupils make rapid and consistent progress throughout the school and attain much higher standards in English and maths than average.

"Not only do pupils develop exceptionally strong academic skills but they also have outstanding personal qualities.

"Teaching is never less than good and much is outstanding. Teachers have very high expectations of their pupils and of themselves. Lessons are very carefully planned to ensure all pupils do their very best work at all times.

"Behaviour is exemplary and pupils take a pride in themselves and the school.

"They feel safe, get on well with and care for each other. They have excellent attitudes to learning in all lessons.

"Outstanding leadership has ensured consistently high standards. The head teacher has created a teaching team which includes all staff members, who work closely and effectively together to ensure pupils progress quickly."

To improve further, the Ofsted report stated that staff need to ensure teaching is outstanding in all lessons by sharing teachers' expertise with all staff in the school and concentrating on new learning.