Bilsthorpe Flying High Academy rated as a ‘good’ school following Ofsted Inspection

A good school has been praised for being ‘a supportive oasis’ for its pupils by inspectors.

In its latest Ofsted report, Bilsthorpe Flying High Academy, based on Crompton Road, Bilsthorpe, was rated as continuing to be a good school by the education watchdog.

Inspectors noted that the school was inclusive and caring with ‘high aspirations for all pupils, including disadvantaged pupils, to achieve the best possible outcomes.’

Pupils told inspectors that they felt safe and happy, and thought of the school as a ‘supportive oasis where they can talk to any of the adults and voice any concerns or worries they may have’.

One pupil told inspectors: “I love this school because you get high-quality lessons and also loads of help if you are struggling with anything in your learning, mentally, or your home life.”

School head, Samantha Leek, said: “We are delighted with the report which reflects all of the wonderful attributes we nurture and promote at Bilsthorpe Flying High Academy.

“We pride ourselves on educating and supporting the whole child, and the inspectors highlighted not only the academic achievements of our pupils, but also the environment we foster to ensure children’s happiness and wellbeing.

“Our children were amazing throughout the inspection. They demonstrated all of our values to the visiting inspectors and their families should be so proud of them.

“I’d like to say a huge thank you to staff for their efforts and to all of our children and their supportive families. You have made all of us all so proud.”

The report states that the school has a strong community feel and that relationships are at the heart of their ethos. Relationships between staff and children are also described as being ‘warm and nurturing’.

Inspectors highlighted that pupils understand the school’s values of pride, confidence, aspiration, responsibility, enjoyment, creativity and perseverance — consistently demonstrating these values in their relationships with each other and how they approach learning.

Early years children were also found to have a strong start, with staff having very high expectations, and a carefully planned environment.

Staff are skilled and effective at modelling new vocabulary and encouraging children to speak in full sentences, as well as encouraging children to follow their own interests and exploring through play.

It was recognised that the school makes reading a priority staff read to pupils daily and children, with reading for pleasure promoted.

An ambitious curriculum and adept teaching led inspector to write that pupils achieve well, make strong progress and are encouraged to aspire to do their best, with levels of in lesson engagement consistently high.

Children were also found to be well prepared for life in modern Britain, showing they know how to keep themselves safe, including online, and have a mature understanding of diversity and the importance of equality.

As one pupil told inspectors: “It is important to be respectful of difference. We can all have different opinions. We do not have to agree but we can still be nice to each other.”

Staff and pupils both feel respected and listened to.