Gainsborough: Ofsted inspectors praise Gainsborough Academy for its improvements

The Ofsted inspection, which took place at the beginning of October, found that the quality of teaching and achievement of students is improving quickly.

Particular praise was given for students’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development, which is now considered a strength of the school.

Principal, Vicky Simcock, said, “We are delighted that The Gainsborough Academy has been recognised by Ofsted inspectors as improving rapidly.”

“This positive outcome follows on from pleasing GCSE results in the summer when we maintained the performance of students gaining five or more A* to C grades, including Maths and English and had an outstanding set of results across our science subjects.”

“This is a truly exciting time for all the staff and students at our Academy and we are looking forward to the future together.”

Highlights of the report include the development of English and mathematical skills, Ofsted stated that they are getting better across different year groups owing to the priority given to their improvement.

Mathematical skills are improving because students practise them more widely and are helped to see how they can be used in real life and in their future careers’.

The report also noted significant improvement in pupil’s behaviour.

Conduct is described as ‘good’ with students being polite and respectful to teachers and each other.

The contribution that many students make to the leadership of the school through the school council and house system was also praised.

Chair of Governors, Margaret Serna, said: “I am delighted that the recent Ofsted report acknowledges and recognises the improvements made across the Academy since the last visit by Inspectors in the Summer term.”

“The improved grading sets another key milestone in our continuing journey to deliver the very best in education and support to all students.”

“The report also highlights the need for continued vigilance and robust governance in ensuring that the Academy maintains the focus on improvement.”

Gary Headland, Chief Executive of The Lincoln College Group said: “We are proud of the staff and students at the school who have worked so hard since the previous inspection.”

“The improvement highlighted in this report is the first step on our journey, and we will be working closely together to ensure that the academy continues to improve, ensuring the very best learning experience for every student.”

“I believe that the current academy leadership team is well-placed to achieve this.”