Improvements at academy after previous poor rating

An academy previously rated "inadequate" has been upgraded to "good" in most categories following a new inspection, but its quality of education still "requires improvement", said Ofsted.

Northampton International Academy (NIA), which has 2,000 pupils aged four to 18, achieved a "good" rating in five out of six categories after the inspection in October.

In its report, Ofsted said the school had "improved rapidly under strong and determined leadership", but "pupils do not all achieve as well as they should".

Martin Serrão, executive head teacher, said he was "very proud" that the "hard work and determination has been recognised by Ofsted".

The academy is among the first schools in the country to not receive an overall single grade from inspectors, following changes made by the watchdog.

It followed an inquest into head teacher Ruth Perry's suicide, which concluded that a critical Ofsted inspection contributed to her death.

In 2022, Ofsted rated NIA "inadequate" overall, with criticisms in most categories analysed.

But in its latest inspection, it praised the school's sense of community, improved behaviour, calm classrooms and strong pastoral care, noting pupils meet "very high expectations".

Staff were also commended for their enthusiasm and opportunities for professional development.

However, the Ofsted report said there was still inconsistent delivery of the curriculum across the school.

Some staff did not adapt their teaching to meet the needs of all pupils, it said, including those with special educational needs and disabilities and those with English as an additional language.

Mr Serrão said: "Since the last inspection, everyone at the school, alongside East Midlands Academy Trust, has been working tirelessly to achieve real, long-lasting improvement and transformation at Northampton International Academy.

"We are very proud that this hard work and determination has been recognised by Ofsted.

"Our journey doesn’t end here. We are continuing to drive forward improvement across all areas so that we are offering all of our learners, from early years through to sixth form, the quality of education and school experience they deserve."

Joshua Coleman, chief executive of East Midlands Academy Trust, added: "The Ofsted report reflects the hard work and dedication shown by [staff] at Northampton International Academy every day.

"I look forward to seeing the school continue to flourish and succeed."

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