Following a recent monitoring visit, Ofsted found that Bradford Forster Academy, located on Fenby Avenue, has achieved considerable progress since its previous judgement in March 2023, in which the Academy was placed into ‘Special Measures’.
Inspectors recognised improvements made across the board thanks to the work of staff and support from its trust, Bradford Diocesan Academies Trust. The report noted progress in the strength of its leadership; attendance, quality of education, behaviour and personal development of pupils; and relations between staff, pupils and parents.
Inspectors reported that since the previous visit ‘leaders have made progress to improve the school’ and the Trust ‘has acted swiftly to increase the capacity of leadership’. This has ‘provided leaders with the space and time to focus diligently on the priorities identified in the action plans’.
Collaboration toward improvement measures is strong, with inspectors noting that ‘leaders at all levels are united to improve the school’ and the improvements made since the last visit ‘have been done collaboratively with the trust and the staff body’. Further, the ‘school has a productive relationship’ and ‘positive working partnership’ with the local Diocese, which is ‘integral to the school’s values and ethos’.
To tackle areas highlighted in the previous report, inspectors said that ‘behaviour and attitudes are broken down into manageable focus areas’ and are ‘grounded in consistency’ which is ‘starting to have a positive effect’. The report also highlighted that ‘pupil attendance is a high priority’ and the academy-wide ‘focus on ensuring pupils are in class is having a positive impact’.
Similarly, to support pupils with personal development ‘leaders are quick to respond to any need that may arise’, ‘for example, they work with the designated safeguarding leader to identify particular needs that will support the pupils to be safe in school and the community’.
Inspectors also noted that progress has been made to ‘strengthen engagement with parents and the community’ such as ‘the newly formed parent-teacher association and links with local youth organisations’. The academy also works to nurture its internal school culture, as inspectors highlighted that ‘staff relationships with pupils are positive and pupils are listened to by staff’ and pupils’ ‘views are considered and used to inform actions’.
While the inspection report has showcased improvements in several areas, the academy said it is not complacent and is dedicated to building further on these improvements to ensure they are fully embedded, and pupils receive the best possible education.
Mrs Gemma Earles, Principal at Bradford Forster Academy, said:
“When I joined the school community last year, it was clear there was strong motivation from leaders, staff and pupils to further improve the academy and enhance its provision to ensure pupils received an excellent education. Not only is it reaffirming to see Ofsted recognise our commitment to this mission and the progress being achieved, but it is inspiring to be part of such a dedicated school community.”
Carol Dewhurst, Chief Executive at Bradford Diocesan Academies Trust, said:
“The team at Bradford Forster has worked so relentlessly and diligently to drive forward positive progress and further embed improvement initiatives across the school. It’s good to see Ofsted recognise the impacts being achieved. I’m confident that as a Trust and school community we can continue to accelerate the reach of this work and ensure all pupils are well-supported to thrive.”
To read the full Ofsted report click here.