Outwood Academy Acklam Achieves Centre of Excellence

November 17, 2021

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Outwood Academy Acklam in Middlesborough has achieved the Inclusive School Award with Centre of Excellence status.

Context

Outwood Academy Acklam is a larger than an average-sized secondary school with over 1200 students from year 7 to 11. It became Outwood Academy Acklam in September 2013, previously being Oakfields Community College, which was a merger of two existing schools on the same site. The College was in special measures and so joined the Outwood Grange Academy Trust that has an ethos of ‘Students First’.

The Principal Leads the Way

Outwood Academy Acklam is a remarkable Academy. The Principal leads with great determination to make the Academy experience the best that it can possibly be for his pupils. He values every pupil no matter what their ability or disability and he welcomes them all. Outwood Grange Academy Trust is one that sees inclusion as integral to their policy and practice but it is the Principal who sets the tone and leads the way. He does this with great energy and enthusiasm and he has been able to share his vision with his staff and pupils and they have readily followed him. He has a good understanding of the barriers that stop children from succeeding and he works hard with his team to make inclusion a reality. He understands that inclusion is about the staff as well as pupils and they describe him as a Principal with heart! They believe he cares about them and always has their best interests to the fore of his mind. He knows that they can only support pupils if they are well trained and developed and if they are valued. Pupils know that the staff really care about them and the excellent pastoral care provided along with solid good quality teaching ensures they have every chance of achieving their very best.

Everyone is Committed to Inclusion

The Academy is a busy place where pupils move purposefully to their lessons and settle quickly to their work. The staff, pupils, parents and governors are all committed to making inclusion happen. The building and playgrounds are impressive with excellent facilities and plenty of room. The premises team are to be congratulated for keeping the Academy in such good condition. It is clear that pupils show real respect for the building and grounds and it looks as good as new. The learning environment is very positive and it provides excellent conditions to learn and work in. Behaviour around the Academy is good and there was a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere. Children were generally happy to be in the Academy. Where there were instances of poor behaviour they were dealt with swiftly and expertly. A small minority of pupils need more support with their behaviour and there are systems and staff in place to provide it.

The Academy Should Be Proud

There is a lot of good practice across the Academy. Leaders know what they need to do to move forward and they are constantly looking to improve. Education means change and this is an Academy that is not afraid of change. They grasp it with both hands and make sure it serves their pupils. Students always come first. The Academy has much to share and much to learn and they have much to be proud of.

Find out more about the IQM Inclusive School Award

If your school is interested in obtaining the IQM Inclusive School Award or you wish to talk to a member of the IQM team please telephone:

028 7127 7857 (9.00 am to 5.00 pm)
or email: info@iqmaward.com for further details.

Want more information on the IQM Award? Click here to request your free IQM information pack