Hill Top Academy continues to deliver high quality education for the pupils it serves

During the inspection, inspectors judged the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management and Early Years, all to be outstanding, leading to an overall effectiveness judgement of outstanding.

This latest recognition again puts the school in a position amongst the UK’s elite of ‘outstanding’ education providers.

During their visit, inspectors met with the CEO, Executive Principal, leaders, staff, Directors and Local Governors.

They also talked to pupils about their work and visited lessons, observed extra-curricular activities and spoke to curriculum leaders and teachers and looked in depth at areas of the curriculum, including reading, mathematics, geography, PE and art.

The report begins by recognising what it is like to attend Hill Top Academy: “The School leaves no stone unturned to ensure every pupil learns and achieves well”.

Leaders’ ambition and support for the pupils who attend it are exceptional. Staff and leaders share one vision: ‘Every Child, Every Chance, Every day!’ Pupils behave exceptionally well in class and around school. They know and understand what is expected of them. This contributes to a calm environment across the school.

Throughout the inspection, inspectors noted that the quality of education provided by the school is exceptional.

“Teachers know the important knowledge that pupils must remember because the curriculum design in each subject is clear to them. Pupils are encouraged to make connections to what they already know. This helps them to develop a deep understanding of the areas of study."

The inspection team were impressed with the school’s ambitious curriculum and the excellent training opportunities provided for the teachers and support teams.

The provision for pupils with SEND and or disabilities was identified as a strength, stating: “Teachers carefully adapt lessons to ensure that pupils all pupils benefit from the curriculum. Most pupils, including those with special education needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are supported to access the same learning as their peers.”

Other strengths identified were the teaching of reading, the provision for pupils in Early Years, the strong emphasis on pupil’s personal development and leaders, including those with responsibility for governance.

Executive Principal, Rachael Macleod, said: “I am delighted that Ofsted have agreed with our own assessment of Hill Top Academy.

"The report recognises the hard work and high expectations that lead to excellent academic outcomes, alongside the importance of developing the character of our pupils in our caring and supportive community where the wellbeing of both pupils and staff are key.

"I would like to thank all pupils, staff, parents/carers, Directors and governors for their ongoing hard work, support and dedication.”

CEO, Beryce Nixon OBE said: “This is a tremendous achievement for Hill Top Academy. This result reflects a significant, whole team effort and strong partnership working with the community of Edlington.

“Each member of staff, family and young person has played a central role in ensuring that Hill Top continues to provide outstanding education. I am immensely proud of everyone.”

Chair of the Local Governing Board, Keith Binks said: “To retain an Outstanding Judgement is testament to the continued hard work and dedication of all colleagues at the School and at the Trust.”