Acklam primary school given a strong-standard Ofsted rating

Kader Academy in Acklam, which has 450 pupils, was commended for high achievement, inclusive support and a warm, welcoming environment.

Inspectors, who published the Ofsted report on Wednesday (June 1), said the school achieved a strong standard in all seven areas inspected, including behaviour, leadership and curriculum.

They noted that many children join with skills below the typical level for their age, particularly in language and communication, but quickly find their feet thanks to teaching closely matched to their individual needs.

Around half of Kader’s pupils speak English as an additional language, and inspectors said those arriving with little or no English “catch up rapidly”, especially in speaking and writing.

Year 1 phonics results are consistently above the national average, while Key Stage 2 outcomes in reading, writing and maths also exceed national figures.

Attendance is described as steadily improving, now close to the national average and in line with similar schools, with persistent absence significantly below national levels.

Leaders and staff work closely with disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) to remove barriers to regular attendance, provide tailored support and ensure they can take part fully in school life.

Disadvantaged pupils at Kader currently outperform their peers nationally as a result.

The school has been praised for a warm and welcoming learning environment. (Image: Kader Academy, Facebook)

Behaviour at the Middlesbrough school is said to be positive, with older pupils acting as role models, bullying described as rare and dealt with quickly, and pupils saying they feel safe, supported and proud of their school.

Kader also places strong emphasis on personal development, teaching pupils about diversity, British values and the wider world, including through participation in Middlesbrough Mela and links with local businesses.

The report highlights that Kader Academy, under headteacher Janet Donald, is truly living up to its motto: “One family. Little people. Big dreams.”