Cambridgeshire school where pupils make 'exceptional progress' rated 'outstanding'

A Cambridgeshire school where pupils make 'exceptional progress' has been rated 'outstanding' in all areas. Martin Bacon Academy in Northstowe was visited by Ofsted inspectors in October.

Ofsted no longer makes an overall effectiveness judgement for inspections of state-funded schools. However, the academy was rated as 'outstanding' in all four areas: quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management.

The academy is part of Meridian Trust and caters to pupils aged three to 19 with multiple learning difficulties, severe learning difficulties in cognition and learning, autistic spectrum disorders, and multi-sensory impairments. An Ofsted report said: "At this calm and orderly school, staff identify and celebrate each pupil's 'superpowers'."

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Inspectors found that staff have high expectations for pupils and tailor each pupil's development path to their needs with a well-structured curriculum to help them make 'exceptional progress'. They found pupils behave well and develop trusting relationships with adults, making them feel safe and secure.

"The close links with the secondary school mean pupils who can achieve GCSEs learn the right content from staff with appropriate skills," the report said. "The school's preparation for pupils' next stage is of exceptional quality."

Inspectors said pupils learn to be independent, including learning to cook and to travel safely. "School leaders are highly ambitious for pupils and staff," they said.

Headteacher Sarah Louise said: "We are delighted with this exceptional report. Receiving top ratings across all four key areas is a remarkable accomplishment and a proud milestone for our school. Our heartfelt thanks go out to our dedicated staff, pupils, and parents for their commitment to creating an environment where all our pupils can make the most of their superpowers and flourish."

Mary Abeyasekera, Executive Director of SENDV at Meridian Trust, added: "This Ofsted report showcases the excellence and collaborative spirit that defines Martin Bacon Academy and we couldn't be prouder of the team. A huge congratulations to everyone who played a role in achieving this fantastic result both in the academy and across Meridian Trust."

You can read the full Ofsted inspection report here.