Staff and pupils at Tuxford Primary Academy – part of the Diverse Academies Trust – had cause for celebration as the results of their latest Ofsted visit were published. Following a two-day inspection on 11 and 12 June 2024, the academy has once again been judged as a ‘good’ school – a testament to the consistent standards and expectations it sets for all pupils.
Inspectors praised leaders’ high expectations for behaviour and achievement and acknowledged that the five Rs – respectful, responsible, resilient, ready and reflective – underpinned everything that happened at the school.
They were also impressed by the inclusive and welcoming culture at the academy, stating ‘Pupils are prepared well for life in and beyond the local community’, building on fundamental British values. Without a doubt, this was best summed up in the report in the voice of one of the children at the academy, who commented to inspectors: “Everyone is welcome at our school. Everyone is treated the same. We respect diversity.”
Other areas highlighted in the report included a ‘detailed and well-organised curriculum’ where learners build on their knowledge logically and cumulatively; the strong priority placed on reading and phonics; and an impressive programme of personal, social and health education (PSHE), including visits and trips, guest speakers, and a focus on a range of communities, cultures and beliefs from around the world.
Inspectors noted that staff were ‘skilled’ in provision for children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) and that, ‘These pupils get the help that they need to learn the curriculum. Their needs are well understood.’
Principal, Tracy Blacknell, commented: “I am particularly pleased that Ofsted inspectors recognised the pride that our children have in coming to school, that we celebrate each other’s achievements, and that this is evident in their behaviour. It’s so important to us that through our school promise we instil traits of kindness, honesty and gentleness throughout our school community, and that our children feel happy and supported. I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank our parental community and our staff team for supporting the academy – by continuing to work together we will go on to build on this ‘good’ rating to achieve our highest ambitions for every child at the academy.”
Executive Principal, Gareth Letton, added: “Given the tougher reporting framework set out by Ofsted, this a great outcome for Tuxford Primary Academy and reflects the high expectations and consistency of standards we have put into place to ensure all our children reach their full potential. We are unashamedly ambitious for our academy and will reflect on any areas for improvement highlighted by the report to ensure that we continually grow, evolve and keep on delivering an exceptional educational experience for this wonderful community of parents and children.”
Chief Education Officer for Diverse Academies Trust, Cat Thornton, said: “We are delighted that Tuxford Primary Academy has maintained the high standards that we strive for as a Trust, providing the quality of education that the staff, parents and children can be proud of. This outcome is testament to the collaborative work of a great team keeping our school communities at the heart of everything we do.”
