Morley Place Academy, Delta Academies Trust (Delta), welcomed Ofsted inspectors in May. Eager to demonstrate how the academy has transformed since joining Delta’s family of schools and after its previous rating of ‘Inadequate’ in 2019, staff were overjoyed to hear that Ofsted now rated the academy ‘good’ in all areas.
The improvements at Morley Place Academy have certainly been rapid. Recent and “significant improvements to the curriculum” which has been uniquely designed to have maximum impact continues to challenge and inspire pupils. Delta is passionate about sharing examples of good practice, improving teaching and learning, and offering support and development. Subject leaders in Morley Place worked with other trust schools and trust wide Directors of Learning to ensure the curriculum is inspiring, sequential and helping all children to make progress. This has “really made a difference” with all staff now clearer about pupil expectations meaning that “aspirations are much higher”. The academy’s SENCo has also played a significant role in steering the curriculum which has enabled SEND pupils to “get the support that they need to access the ambitious curriculum”.
Pupils at the academy feel “happy and safe” in an inclusive environment where they are all valued. Inspectors noted a “calm and orderly” atmosphere with highly productive classrooms where “pupils enjoy learning”. The social and emotional needs of pupils are a “high priority” and support from teachers and teaching assistants is readily available.
There is a renewed love for reading at Morley Place. Some pupils have been appointed as ‘pupil librarians’ and are “full of enthusiasm for their role” in contributing to academy life. Pupils are also taught about real-life issues including equality and diversity; this helps them to understand the wider world around them. Staff describe Morley Place as a family and the team there being part of the wider Delta family.
Lauren Penny, Head of Academy, commented:
“We are absolutely thrilled with everything the academy has achieved in such a short period of time. This is a huge reflection on the hard work that staff, the community and of course our pupils, all put in to making Morley Place such a wonderful place to work and learn. Being part of the Delta family of schools collectively we have transformed the education on offer for children in our academy.
Paul Tarn, CEO sent congratulations to staff and pupils.
“The school has a lovely atmosphere, and I am delighted that parents now have a school which is officially good in their community.”