Walton Academy – part of the Diverse Academies Trust – has retained its status as an Ofsted-rated ‘good’ academy. Following a two-day inspection on 2 and 3 November 2022, inspectors rated the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, sixth form provision, and leadership and management as good in all areas and, therefore, good for overall effectiveness.
Under the new inspection framework, tougher measures have been put into place to assess the quality of educational provision within schools. Walton’s report was overwhelmingly positive and demonstrates the clear vision and ambitious plans which the academy has for all of its students.
Inspectors praised teaching and curriculum plans as being ‘ambitious for all pupils, including pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) and those in the sixth form.’ They also commented on teachers ‘strong subject knowledge and enthusiasm for the subjects they teach’.
A strong careers programme, governance, safeguarding and extracurricular opportunities were all highlighted positively within the report, in addition to student behaviour and the positive learning environment for students within which they ‘enjoy coming to school and value the education they receive’.
At post 16 level, inspectors described how students enjoy their sixth form experience and the vast opportunities on offer to them leading to them being ‘well prepared for future success.’
Principal, Jess Leonard, said: “I am extremely proud of what the academy has achieved over these past few years. The Ofsted judgement and report is testament to the hard work and efforts of the whole community. I am now looking forward to continuing our success as we continue to deliver the best provision possible for our students.”
Executive Principal, Caroline Saxelby, added: “We are delighted with the overwhelmingly positive feedback following the Ofsted inspection. Our vision is to provide the highest quality education for our students, as well as ensuring our students are happy and proud to be a part of the Walton community. We are committed to ensuring that Walton goes from strength to strength.”
Dave Cotton, chief executive officer, added: “My thanks go out to all the staff and students at Walton who have made the academy such a special place of learning. Walton has high standards and high expectations for all students and this has been reflected in the Ofsted report, with all areas being rated as good. It is a testament to the hard work and determination of everyone in the Walton community and we are dedicated to ensuring that the academy continues on its journey of success.”
Walton’s latest Ofsted report can be found here.
