Royton and Crompton Academy Principal salutes 'major step forward' following latest inspection

Proud leaders at E-ACT Royton and Crompton are celebrating an important milestone thanks an Ofsted inspection report which recognises a “secure momentum of improvement” as a result of a programme of sustained school improvement at the Oldham academy.

Following their most recent visit in January, Ofsted rated the school as “Good” in three of the four main categories of an inspection: leadership and management; behaviour and attitudes; and personal development.

Quality of Education is rated as “requires improvement”, but overall, the report represents a significant leap forward for the academy which was previously rated as “inadequate” in every category. 

Andrea Atkinson, Principal of E-ACT Royton and Crompton Academy, said: “This is such an encouraging report and represents a major step forward for the academy.   

"People will remember that at the last inspection In 2017 the school was graded as inadequate across the board – this report shows just what a sharp trajectory of improvement we are on.  

“I’m very proud of what the team has achieved to date and feel confident that with momentum on our side, we will go from strength to strength.

"We’re very clear on the areas we need to continue to focus on and I’m confident that when they visit us again, the Ofsted inspection team will see that overall, we are a “Good” school, and one which is fast becoming the school of choice locally.”

Key highlights in the report include: 

Pupils told the inspection team that they like coming to school, and they feel happy and safe.

They make friends easily and understand and respect the differences between people. 

Pupils behave well and live up to our high expectations.

They are punctual, concentrate well and try their best in class.

They stay focused in lessons and enjoy each other’s company during break and lunchtimes.

The inspection team note that our behaviour management approach is used “with care and kindness”. 

The curriculum is ambitious, and leaders are “determined that pupils are helped to overcome any barriers” that will prevent their future success.  

The wide range of extra-curricular experiences, and the opportunities for pupils to take on leadership roles is recognised as a real strength. 

The school is well led, with our leaders recognised for their determination to overcome any social disadvantage that could hold pupils back.  

Leaders are ambitious for our pupils, and there is a “secure momentum of improvement”. 

Work to identify students’ needs promptly and accurately is highlighted, and children with SEND enjoy school and are supported in joining in lessons with their friends. 

Reading is recognised as an area of strength, with the inspection team pointing to the effective support we provide to help pupils who find reading more difficult. 

Work to support pupils’ wider personal development is recognised as “well established and effective”. 

Pupils understand and are well prepared to be part of modern Britain.

Careers education is also noted as being high-quality and helping pupils make informed decisions about their next steps.

Check out the school's website at: roytoncrompton.e-act.org.uk

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