Leeds school 'startles' Ofsted with it's incredible transformation

The fortunes of a Leeds school previously in 'special measures' has been transformed, earning the 'good' Ofsted seal of approval.

Ten years ago, John Smeaton Academy, in Stanks, was placed in Special Measures by Ofsted. And the Leeds secondary school was rated either Inadequate or Requires Improvement every time Ofsted inspectors visited after that.

When The GORSE Academies Trust was asked by the Government to take the school on in 2021, the school was beset by long-standing problems including poor exam results, high staff turnover, bad behaviour among some students and years of entrenched failure.

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But following the first inspection of the school since it joined three years ago, John Smeaton Academy has been rated Good in all areas, with Ofsted describing the turnaround as “startling”.

Inspectors said the school had become “a beacon for its community”, with students well-behaved, staff believing in them and ambitions set high in all areas of school life. Ofsted says that students at John Smeaton Academy now “flourish”.

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Principal Andrew Moncur said: “I am delighted with what has been accomplished at John Smeaton Academy. Ofsted’s report is superb. But it confirms what we already knew – that this is now a really good school.

“Today’s success is a real team effort that has taken place over three years. It’s down to the hard work and dedication of our students, our talented and committed staff, our supportive parents and the backing and expertise of The GORSE Academies Trust.

"Everyone involved with the school has played their part. I am proud of what we have achieved together.

“This isn’t the end of the story though – we will keep working hard for every student here every day so that they have a great education.”