A school is celebrating after being recognised by Ofsted for helping pupils “thrive and excel” after they continued to be rated Good following an inspection in January.
Coal Clough Academy in Swindon Street, Burnley, was described in glowing terms by inspectors, who said pupils were “proud” of their school and noted how the school had helped pupils to turn their education around.
Inspectors were also impressed with the wide-ranging curriculum, the safeguarding practices, that the school meets the needs of SEND pupils effectively, and the use of assessment strategies to identify gaps in pupils’ knowledge.
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The report said: “Coal Clough Academy gives pupils the support they need to put the past behind them and focus on the future.
“Pupils respond well to the school’s high expectations for their achievement. They thrive and excel as individuals and in their learning.
“Pupils benefit from the happy family atmosphere in school. They enjoy socialising with their friends and staff at break and lunchtimes.
"They know staff will listen to them and help them if they are struggling to learn or have any worries. This supports pupils to feel settled and confident in school.”
The report also highlighted the school’s recent emphasis on reading for pleasure and praised strategies used by the school to ensure attendance is a high priority where pupils have previously had poor attendance.
Coal Clough Academy is part of the Education Partnership Trust (EPT) as an alternative provision school for young people aged 11-16.
Headteacher Holly Clarke said: “I am delighted that the inspectors recognised that Coal Clough Academy continues to be a 'Good' school where pupils are proud to be part of their school, feel safe, happy and enjoy their personalised curriculum.
"Staff at Coal Clough Academy are passionate, dedicated and have high expectations for all pupils.
"Our strong curriculum allows pupils to reach their true potential through careful adaptations that ensure that they can access their learning and make steps towards success in each subject they study.
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"Our staff, families and pupils have played a central role in ensuring that Coal Clough Academy continues to provide an excellent education that prepares our pupils for an ambitious future, regardless of challenge.
"The pupils make significant improvements in their attendance when they are placed into our provision, they speak with pride about their personal improvements since joining the school and I am very proud to be the Headteacher of Coal Clough Academy.”
Sharon Roscoe, chief executive of Education Partnership Trust, added: “We are thrilled with the outcome of the inspection at Coal Clough Academy and extremely proud of the feedback provided by Ofsted.
"I know how hard everyone works and how committed the staff are to providing the best education and school experience for every pupil in the school and this recognition is well deserved.
“I would like to congratulate the staff, pupils, parents and governors on this glowing report which is an accurate reflection of the school.”
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