As educational institutions across the UK gear up for a new academic year, several have received praise following recent inspections by Ofsted, showcasing significant improvements and reaffirming their commitment to high-quality education. Leading the pack is Long Road Sixth Form College, which has been rated ‘Good’ in all key areas, including an ‘Outstanding’ provision for students with high needs. Not only do they celebrate this achievement, but the college is also preparing for its upcoming Summer 2025 Open Evenings on July 2 and 3, inviting potential students and parents to explore its vibrant campus.
Long Road's Principal, Steve Dann, expressed his pride in the report, stating, "We are incredibly proud of this report. It represents a tremendous amount of work by all our staff and students, as well as the support from parents and local employers. With the validation this report brings, we couldn't be more pleased, especially in our 50th anniversary year.
In a similar vein, Doncaster Children’s Services have garnered a ‘Good’ rating following their 2022 transition back to council control. Inspectors praised the significant improvements made to services supporting vulnerable children, commending local leaders for their decisive actions. Mayor of Doncaster, Ros Jones, articulated the achievement, stating, "This is a great success for Doncaster with this ‘Good’ Ofsted rating. It is a significant achievement... proving that our decision to bring children’s services back under council control was the right one.
More than just a rating, the Ofsted inspection highlighted how the local authority has reformed its approach, creating an environment that fosters commitment among workers and allows for positive outcomes for children in their care. Their efforts indicate a shift towards a learning organization, where the voices of children and care-experienced young people are prioritized.
Across the country, Halesowen CofE Primary has also seen improvement, elevating its status from Requires Improvement to Good in all areas according to their most recent Ofsted report. The school, which was visited on December 17 and 18, received commendations for its pupils' behavior, although it does highlight attendance as a key priority for further development. The report added, “The school has high expectations of pupils, who strive to live up to these standards, displaying kindness and effort in their work.”
Meanwhile, Wolverhampton's Hill Avenue Academy retains its ‘Outstanding’ status according to the inspectors who visited in January 2025. The academy was praised for fostering an atmosphere where pupils not only enjoy learning but achieve high academic standards as well. The report noted, “Pupils fully reflect the school values of ‘happiness, achievement, respect and teamwork’ in how they conduct themselves.”
In February, Washington Academy received accolades from Ofsted for improving the quality of the education it provides. The school has strengthened its literacy initiatives and has prioritized strategies to better attendance figures, working closely with parents and caregivers to eliminate barriers to school attendance. Headteacher Victoria Carter commented, "We are very pleased with this positive Ofsted monitoring report. Inspectors highlighted many strengths, including our drive to improve the quality of education and our focus on literacy.”
Finally, Mabel Prichard School, which provides for students aged 2 to 19 with complex needs, has been rated ‘Good’ across most areas, with an ‘Outstanding’ status in personal development. The headteacher, Alison Martin, expressed delight at the results, emphasizing the commitment of the staff who are “motivated and well-skilled,” contributing to a nurturing environment where pupils can thrive.
Kay Willett, CEO of The Gallery Trust, reaffirmed their dedication to exceptional education for children with special educational needs, expressing pride in the recognition received and the continued commitment to ensure all pupils excel.
These commendable reports illustrate a collective effort toward educational excellence, showcasing how strong leadership, community involvement, and committed staff can transform the educational landscape for the better.
