Glowing Ofsted report for Ealing school three years on

An Ealing school which opened in the wake of the pandemic has been rated outstanding by Ofsted three years later.

Ark Soane Academy, located on Gunnersbury Lane, overcame the challenges of the pandemic to welcome its inaugural Year 7 students in September 2021, a year later than planned.

Despite the delay, the report noted that “This is a school where students excel. Pupils and staff are proud to be part of this school community.’

“We are proud to receive such a glowing report,” said Matthew Neuberger, director of Ark Soane.

“I want to thank the staff, governors and parents for their support and dedication. Your combined efforts enable us to provide an ambitious education for our students. We will continue to strive for excellence and ensure our young people have the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.”

During the inspection on 6 and 7 March 2024, Ofsted commended the school for its unwaveringly high standards, rigorous routines and exceptional pupil support.

The report says the school is “well led by highly qualified and resilient leaders”, with a curriculum “expertly taught by highly qualified teachers with strong subject knowledge”. “Teachers consistently apply rigorous routines that help create an exceptionally supportive learning environment.”

Inspectors praised the school’s wider opportunities for personal growth and development, including exploration days, daily family meals and well-attended extra-curricular clubs.

Chair of governors Ann Ewing said: “This journey of resilience and commitment to excellence has culminated in today’s outstanding rating from Ofsted. We are all so proud to be part of the Ark Soane community.”

Mr Neuberger concluded: “We have an exciting milestone with the completion of the development and this extension reflects the school’s long-term vision and commitment to the community.”

The school’s journey began in 2018 when planning was approved to create a 1,200-pupil secondary school and 116 housing units developed by Countryside in conjunction with Build to Rent provider Simple Life London and Network Homes.

The school is situated on the site of the former Acton College, which was part of Ealing Hammersmith & West London College.

The school is part of Ark, a UK-based education charity working to improve educational outcomes. By 2027, Ark Soane will reach full capacity, housing 1,200 pupils, including 300 sixth form places.

The report is available on the Ofsted website.