Celebrating a Strong Standard in our Ofsted inspection
There’s lots to celebrate at Penny Oaks after inspectors recognised a Strong Standard across every area of our recent inspection.
The report is full of praise for our pupils, staff and wider school community. It recognises the ambitious curriculum, inclusive culture and the rapid progress pupils are making.
Inspectors described Penny Oaks as a “vibrant and successful school”, where children from a wide range of cultures and backgrounds feel valued and included from the moment they arrive.
That sense of belonging is something our pupils are proud of. Inspectors found that children quickly make friends, build positive relationships with staff and become part of school life. They described a culture of kindness, respect and genuine care, with pupils supporting new classmates to settle in.
And perhaps most importantly, the report states: “pupils thrive here because they are safe and happy.”
Inspectors were impressed by the opportunities pupils have to learn beyond their everyday lessons.
From growing vegetables and cooking together, to educational visits, residential trips and our ‘50 things to experience before you leave Penny Oaks’ programme. Pupils get lots of opportunities to try new things, build confidence and develop their understanding of the world around them.
Parents and carers shared their positive experiences too, describing our school as a “welcoming and nurturing community where children thrive”.
Michelle Khambhaita, Headteacher at Co-op Academy Penny Oaks, said:
“We are incredibly proud of this report and, most importantly, of the children, families and staff who have made it possible.
“What makes this recognition particularly special is that it reflects the things we see every day at Penny Oaks. Our pupils are kind and proud of what they know. They arrive with different experiences, backgrounds and starting points, and our job is to make sure every child feels that they belong here and has the opportunity to thrive.
“The recognition of a Strong Standard across every area is a fantastic achievement for our whole school community. It is a testament to the hard work of our pupils and staff, and to the support of our families and governors. We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved together and excited about continuing to build on it.”
The school joined Co-op Academies Trust in 2023. Chris Tomlinson, CEO of Co-op Academies Trust, said:
“Penny Oaks is a brilliant example of what can happen when a school community is united around a clear ambition for every child.
“Since joining the trust in 2023, the school has continued to strengthen pupil experiences for all children while responding to the particular needs of its community. The inspectors’ findings recognise not just strong teaching and learning and positive classroom experiences, but the relationships, successful social inclusion and sense of belonging that sit at the heart of the school.
“We are delighted to celebrate this achievement with the pupils, staff, families, governors and wider Penny Oaks community. They should be enormously proud of what they have achieved.”
Well done to everyone at Penny Oaks. This is a fantastic achievement for the whole school community!