Doncaster academy celebrates ‘Good’ Ofsted under Astrea Academy Trust

The report celebrates Waverley as a well-organised and welcoming school, where leaders have high expectations of pupils, who are well behaved and supportive of one another.

In its first inspection since joining Astrea Academy Trust in 2018, the Doncaster academy has improved its Ofsted judgement by two grades under a much tougher Ofsted framework, marking the huge successes the school has achieved.

Under the leadership of Principal Louise Stanton, and with the support of the trust, the school has realised its vision for pupils to develop the school’s core values of tenacity, empathy, curiosity, scholarship, and happiness.

Mrs Stanton and her senior leaders have also established a strong team culture for its staff, who enjoy working at the school and feel well supported.

Inspectors praise the leadership team, trust leaders and trustees who have a shared ambition of continuously improving the quality of education at Waverley.

They remark that pupils listen carefully to teacher’s instructions and concentrate in lessons, they are not worried about bullying and are confident staff would help them if they had any concerns.

Inspectors highlight many impressive areas of school life in the report, including how leaders work hard to welcome families so they feel part of the school community, the range of well attended clubs, like singing and computing, and the opportunities pupils are given to learn about the careers they might pursue.

Pupils are encouraged to raise their aspirations and are prepared well for life in modern Britain.

Impressed by the progress pupils make, inspectors comment that leaders have improved the curriculum. In early years, the environment is praised for being well-organised, interesting, and purposeful.

In Reception, pupils receive a consistent and effective approach to the teaching of reading, and staff are given high quality training.

Leaders are praised for the effective systems in place to identify pupils who may need extra support, such as working closely with external agencies to provide help for pupils who have special educational need and/or disabilities (SEND).

Louise Stanton, Principal at Waverley Academy, part of Astrea Academy Trust, said: “We are delighted that the rapid progress we have made since Waverley joined Astrea Academy Trust has been recognised by Ofsted. To hear that inspectors believe we have realised our vision is the best accolade I could hope for. Our values lead everything we do for our children, ensuring they get the education and support they need and deserve every day.

“We couldn’t have achieved this fantastic judgement without the relentless determination and tenacity of all our staff. This has been a team effort and I am extremely proud of Team Waverley, including all our staff, children, parents, and carers.

“I am so thankful for the support of our governors and our trust, whose support has been essential to all our improvements and achievements.”

Rowena Hackwood, CEO at Astrea Academy Trust, said: “I am certain that Waverley will continue to go from strength to strength under Louise Stanton’s outstanding leadership.”

*Waverley is hosting an open event on Friday 25 November. It’s a stay and play at 3-5pm.