Ipswich Academy’s latest Ofsted report shows progress towards the removal of special measures

Ipswich Academy has been shown to be making strong improvement following its most recent visit from Ofsted.  The inspector, who visited the school from 5th – 6th July 2016, agreed with findings from a previous inspection in February 2016 that, “leaders and managers are taking effective action towards the removal of special measures”.

Paradigm Trust took over the running of Ipswich Academy in September 2015. This inspection report states that since that point, “The executive principal continues to provide the school with a strong steer for its improvement. She and her team of senior leaders have maintained their efforts to raise expectations and embed the improvements noted at the time of the last monitoring report”.

The report also notes that “actions to raise achievement have been directed towards all pupils” while “greater rigour has been added to the assessment of pupil progress in all years”. Additionally, new initiatives introduced by the school “are being used effectively with individuals and in small groups to boost their confidence and competence”.

Whilst the report details key areas for improvement in order to raise all standards at the school, it also highlights that Paradigm Trust ensures that the school’s “plans are routinely checked to gauge the rate of improvement, and identify where further action is needed”, while the expectations of teachers “remain high”.

Amanda Phillips, chief executive of Paradigm Trust and the principal of Ipswich Academy said:

“We are very pleased that once again Ofsted has recognised the enormous amount of work being carried out by staff, pupils and parents to raise standards at Ipswich Academy. We are aware that more works needs to be done at the academy, but this report – alongside this year’s improved GCSE results – strengthens our belief that we are on track to achieve this.”

The latest inspection report can be viewed here.

Last updated September 7, 2016