Bobby Moore Academy in Stratford gets 'strong' Ofsted report

Bobby Moore Academy (BMA), located on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and part of the David Ross Education Trust, received a glowing report under the education regulator's new inspection framework.

The report also celebrated the school’s trips to 10 Downing Street and the opportunity to play the piano for a head of state.

The all-through academy achieved a 'strong' rating - the second highest of five - in early years provision, inclusion, leadership and governance, and personal development and wellbeing.

It received the middle rating 'expected' standard for its achievement, attendance and behaviour, curriculum and teaching, and post-16 provision.

Ofsted inspectors described the school environment as "calm and orderly," where pupils show mutual respect and where there is an "open culture" that supports safety and wellbeing. They noted that bullying is "never tolerated" and that concerns are "actively identified, acted upon and managed."

The report also found that "pupils feel that they can achieve anything that they would like to do" and that "all pupils are well prepared for the next stages of their education."

Sarah Donnelly, principal at Bobby Moore Academy, said: "We are extremely proud to share this report, which reflects the unwavering ambitions of our whole school community and the significant progress that continues to be made. These positive outcomes are testament to the hard work of our scholars, the dedication of staff and the support of our parents and community.

"We look forward to continuing to support all scholars to Build a Legacy as we focus on the future ahead."

Early years provision at the school was singled out for particular praise, with teaching described as "very well delivered" and underpinned by an "utmost commitment to inclusion".

Ofsted also recognised that children with additional needs achieve "at least as well as, and often better than, their peers nationally."

Inspectors acknowledged tangible improvements made over the past two years, noting that students now access an "inspiring and ambitious curriculum".

Personal development was highlighted as a significant strength, with leaders described as having a "robust and relentless approach" to promoting pupil wellbeing, including for disadvantaged students.

Bradley David, primary principal at Bobby Moore Academy, said: "We take pride in developing our scholars both academically and personally, with the support of our growing community, so they can build their legacy and reach their potential. This Ofsted report is testament to our staff, scholars and community believing in and working very hard for this cause.

"We will use this as a springboard to push even higher."

Simon Rose, CEO of the David Ross Education Trust, also praised the school’s achievements. He said: "Congratulations to all our colleagues and scholars at Bobby Moore Academy. This is a glowing report which we are all proud to see.

"The report reflects the excellent learning experience and opportunities which BMA provides for all its children and young people. We look forward to supporting BMA to continue to build on its significant successes."

Ofsted now uses a five-point scale for inspections, with judgments ranging from "exceptional" to "urgent improvement." The standard for a well-performing school is now "expected standard."