A secondary school is well on its way to being rated “outstanding” by education watchdogs following an interim inspection.
Ebbsfleet Academy received exceptional feedback following an Ofsted visit in December which highlighted the school had “improved significantly” in all areas.
The students were praised in the report. Picture: Leigh Academies Trust
The mixed secondary in Southfleet Road, Swanscombe, was previously rated “good” in 2019 and 2016 but inspectors now think this could be upgraded if a full review was to take place soon.
The ungraded visit, known as a Section 8 inspection, stated that pupils attended the school “happily, safely and with pride” and staff wanted them to “believe, achieve and succeed”.
The report added: “It creates a culture of aspiration and success, with a broad and interesting curriculum that opens pupils’ eyes to the world around them.”
Inspectors praised the academy’s efforts to create a supportive and welcoming environment, with staff and pupils stating “the school feels like a family.”
They also said leaders have high expectations for pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and as a result, their achievements have improved.
Principal Gurjit Kaur Shergill. Picture: Leigh Academies Trust
Students were commended for their behaviour, while leadership roles and teachers were applauded for having a strong knowledge of their subjects.
The report also highlighted how the school encouraged pupils to be “responsible, respectful and active citizens” and its attendance rate had improved since the pandemic.
Following the inspection, principal Gurjit Kaur Shergill said: “We are deeply committed to doing whatever it takes to ensure every student receives an outstanding education and achieves exceptional things.
“We believe there are no excuses for not reaching your absolute potential, and this recognition affirms the incredible efforts of our staff, students, and the wider community.
“Our ethos, rooted in the values of ‘Be Ready, Work Hard, Be Nice,’ is about building an ambitious and supportive environment where every child can thrive academically, grow in confidence, and develop the skills they need to succeed in the modern world.
Ebbsfleet Academy has been visited by Ofsted. Picture: Leigh Academies Trust
“This inspection confirms that we are on the right path to be judged outstanding when inspectors return.”
The chief executive officer of Leigh Academies Trust, which runs the school, Simon Beamish, added: “I am immensely proud of the progress made by Ebbsfleet Academy under the exceptional leadership of Gurjit Kaur Shergill and her team.
“This recognition from Ofsted is a testament to their tireless efforts to create a culture of excellence and ambition.”