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Previously described in 2014 as ‘institutionalised failure’ the school joined the Trust four years ago after falling into special measures and has been on a remarkable journey of rapid improvement to now be rated ‘Good’ across all areas. 

 

Following their visit, inspectors commended teachers, students, and the school's leadership, noting that: “Teachers have enthusiastically taken up the school mantra of ‘Every day students achieve’. They are focused on improving outcomes for all pupils and especially for disadvantaged pupils”.

 

“Leaders are committed to ensuring that all pupils make good progress. They know what is working well and what needs to improve further.  The head of school has worked closely with the executive headteacher to galvanise a cohesive leadership team whose members get things done. Leaders consistently hold staff to account for outcomes and this has ensured that outcomes are now good with subjects that have been weaker in the past improving rapidly”. 

 

The team of inspectors went on to describe the character of the students at the school, commenting: "They are polite, friendly and proud of their school. Pupils are welcoming to visitors and engage well with one another and with adults in the school”.

 

The report also recognised the importance of the support received from both the Trust and school governors highlighting the strong network of school leaders and pro-active nature of the governing body in holding the school to account.

 

Trust CEO, Alex Russell said: "This is a huge achievement for Mary, Steve and the team at Matthew Arnold. They have worked tirelessly to ensure that their students receive a first class education and ultimately secure the school’s future. The school has achieved so much so quickly and we look forward to working with Matthew Arnold on the next steps of their journey”.