Holderness Academy is celebrating after securing a Good rating in its latest Ofsted inspection.
Staff at the school, which is part of the Consortium Academy Trust, say they are delighted with the result, which marks a significant improvement from the previous Requires Improvement rating awarded in 2023.
The Ofsted report praised the school’s high expectations for pupils and its well-designed, ambitious curriculum that helps students develop the knowledge and skills needed for future success. Inspectors noted that students with SEND also have access to the same curriculum as their peers.
Teachers were commended for their strong subject knowledge and clear explanations, while the school was recognised for its welcoming and inclusive environment.
Inspectors highlighted the school’s ARRK values – aspirational, resilient, respectful and kind – and noted that these are embedded in everyday life at the school. Behaviour was praised as respectful and tolerant.
The report stated: “Pupils enjoy a much-improved education at this welcoming school. Staff have high expectations for what pupils can achieve. Many pupils progress well in their subjects and personal development over time. A well-designed curriculum helps them develop knowledge and skills for future success. However, this improved experience has not impacted fully on pupils’ published outcomes.
“The school has addressed previous weaknesses that were evident in the most recent published outcomes. Subject leaders have overhauled the curriculum in many areas. This includes creating strong foundations for future success in Key Stage 3. This is beginning to have an impact on what pupils know and remember.
“The curriculum is ambitious. It makes clear the important knowledge pupils need to know. Pupils are also taught subject-specific terminology. This improves their discussions and written work. In the sixth form, criminology students confidently discuss the criminal justice system. They use key terms such as ‘recidivism’ to explain their ideas.
“Teachers have strong subject knowledge. They explain learning clearly to pupils. In art and design, staff use thoughtful demonstration techniques. As pupils work, a video on a loop reminds them of the key techniques they should use. This builds pupils’ confidence and accuracy in the subject over time.”