The ‘inspirational’ Huddersfield school has ‘relentlessly’ cut down barriers

Inspectors have praised a Huddersfield school for “removing barriers” to enable disadvantaged pupils and others to make outstanding progress.

Ofsted inspectors rated Moor End Academy in Crosland Moor ‘outstanding’ and said pupils’ educational experiences and opportunities for personal development were ‘inspiring’. In a report published on Monday, Ofsted said pupils were “behaving impeccably” as leaders focus on removing barriers for pupils.

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The report said: “At Moor End Academy, pupils’ educational experiences and personal development opportunities are inspirational.

“The academic support and pastoral care given to students is of the highest quality. Students are taught to be responsible, respectful and ambitious citizens.

“The curriculum is challenging and broadens students’ horizons. This sets them up well for future success. Staff and students are proud of the role they play in this thriving school community.

“Students behave extremely well because they understand and appreciate the value of education. Students show mutual and personal respect. He behaves impeccably as he moves around the school.

“Each student’s identity, faith and achievements are celebrated. For example, they help plan and run an annual ‘Culture Day’.

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“The student leadership team makes a real difference to the school. Students are empowered to become the leaders of tomorrow. Leaders are relentlessly focused on removing barriers for students. The school provides students, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds, with outstanding academic progress.

“The school has high expectations and helps every student reach their potential. Students are well-rounded and confident and demonstrate a depth of character that has the potential to transform their lives. The passion and commitment to this goal is evident throughout the school.”

Ofsted described staff as “passionate and knowledgeable” about their subjects. The school provides “exceptional support” to students with a range of needs, including providing special resources for visually impaired students.

Attendance for most groups is considered positive. The report said: “Some students enroll in school after many months, or even years, of no education. These students are now happy and engaged in school life. They thrive because of the care and compassion they experience at this school.”

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Moor End Academy caters for pupils between the ages of 11 and 16 and has 1,066 pupils on the school roll. The director is Natasha Carman and the executive director is Kash Rafiq. The school is part of the South Pennines Academies Trust.

The most recent Ofsted inspection resulted in an outstanding rating in all areas, including quality of education, behavior and leadership. The previous inspection took place in 2012 and resulted in an Outstanding rating.

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