'Inspiring' academy in Nottingham rated 'outstanding' in all areas

A primary academy in Nottingham has been described as "inspiring" by inspectors. The Huntingdon Academy in Alfred Street Central, St Ann's, has been rated 'Outstanding' in every category by Ofsted, this includes for its quality of education, personal development, leadership and management.

The school, which is art of the LEAD Academy Trust, was visited by inspectors on September 24 and September 25, 2024. The school has more than 420 pupils between the ages of three and 11 years old.

Inspectors say the school is a "welcoming" place with an inclusive vision. The Ofsted report reads: "Everyone is valued in this welcoming and inspiring school. The school’s vision of ‘individual growth and empowerment for all’ enables all pupils to believe in themselves.

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"Pupils love coming to school." It adds: "Pupils live and breathe the school’s values in all aspects of school life. They are exceptionally well behaved."

Regarding the report, Rebecca Riley, head of school, said: "We’re thrilled to receive such a fantastic inspection report, which affirms the fact that everyone at Huntingdon is doing their utmost to deliver the best outcomes for pupils. I’m incredibly proud of everything this report highlights, which demonstrates all that we have achieved throughout these challenging times.

"I want to thank our staff for their dedication and hard work as well as the support of our wonderful community, for which we could not have achieved this result without. I know that my colleagues and I will continue to strive to support our pupils to have exceptional educational experiences, as we continue on this upward trajectory.”

Ross Middleton, executive headteacher at Huntingdon Academy, added: "We are delighted that Huntingdon Academy’s entire team has been recognised for their tireless work in providing an excellent education for our pupils, day after day, year after year.

"The leadership team, with the support of all staff have shown great resilience and determination to deliver exceptional outcomes for pupils, overcoming great adversity. I look forward to seeing the school continue to go from strength to strength."

Ofsted had not previously inspected Huntingdon Academy under section 5 of the Education Act 2005, with it having converted into an academy. However, Ofsted previously judged Huntingdon Academy to be outstanding for overall effectiveness, before it opened as an academy.

Ian Coates, one of the victims of the Nottingham attacks in June 2023, worked as a caretaker at Huntingdon Academy. Parents and colleagues paid tribute to him at an emotional memorial event a month after the tragedy in July 2023.