Ofsted praises ‘Aspirational’ Broadoak as attainment and attendance rise
Positive relationships, an ambitious curriculum and a culture of mutual respect have earned Weston’s Broadoak Academy a rating of ‘Good’ from Ofsted inspectors.
In a first inspection since Broadoak joined the Cabot Learning Federation – and a first since Covid restrictions were lifted – the watchdog’s inspection team spent two days speaking with school staff, pupils and parents, while also scrutinising lessons and student work.
Inspectors heaped praise on a school ethos which enables pupils to feel confident and safe, engage in a wide range of activities linked to their talents and interests, and be proud to be part of the Broadoak community.
Leaders were heralded as ‘approachable’, with inspectors noting the efforts they have made to improve student attendance and attainment, as well as their focus on staff development and wellbeing.
Overall, Broadoak was rated as ‘Good’ in all inspection areas.
In her report, lead Ofsted inspector Kelly Olive, HMI, said: “Pupils feel a sense of belonging at Broadoak Academy. This gives them confidence and they feel safe. Pupils are proud to attend this school.
“Staff are aspirational for what pupils can achieve and the type of young person they can become.
“Most pupils exhibit a strong work ethic and are keen to do well. Pupils are passionate advocates against any form of discrimination.
“The school has a broad and ambitious curriculum, based on the shared vision of the multi-academy trust. Subject leaders have adapted the curriculum thoughtfully to suit the needs of pupils. Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are well supported. Parents of pupils with SEND are overwhelmingly positive about the progress their child makes and how well the school communicates with them.
“Strong, positive relationships between staff and pupils are characteristic of the school. Most pupils demonstrate a clear understanding of what is right and wrong and behave sensibly in social times. They are respectful towards each other and the environment around them.”
Inspectors were also positive about Broadoak’s careers education, which is ‘embedded within the curriculum’ and enables students to make ‘informed decisions’ about their future, and the school’s work to ‘grow pupils’ understanding of the fundamental British values’.
School leaders say they are thrilled with Ofsted’s positive verdict, and praised the hard work of staff which made the ‘Good’ judgement possible.
Danny McGilloway, Principal at Broadoak Academy, said:
“This is great news for the whole community. Our parents/carers, staff and students deserve this, and can feel proud that this community has a school that serves them brilliantly.
“I am delighted by this outcome, which is only possible due to the dedication of our wonderful staff, the unrivalled support of our loyal parent/carer body, and of course, the hard work of our fantastic young people – the students. Thank you, all, for the way in which you have contributed to making Broadoak Academy a very special place to work and learn.”
Steve Taylor, Chief Executive Officer of the Cabot Learning Federation, said:
“Due to the period of the pandemic, Broadoak has had to wait a long time for this validation from Ofsted of the quality of provision at the school. Thank you to the staff and students who have worked so hard over recent times. This outcome is great news for the school and also the town; I am delighted for the local community.”
Picture caption: Broadoak Academy Principal Danny McGilloway and pupils celebrate the school’s ‘Good’ rating from Ofsted.
