Leigh Academies Trust is thrilled to announce that Leigh Academy Tree Tops has received exceptional feedback following its recent Ofsted inspection on 19th and 20th November 2024. The inspection suggests that the academy’s performance has improved significantly across all areas since the previous visit, with inspectors planning a return for a graded inspection.
The inspection highlighted the academy’s commitment to its three core values: “Be kind, be ready, be ambitious”. These principles underpin a school environment where every pupil is celebrated for their individuality, and the highest standards of behaviour, academic success, and personal development are consistently achieved.
The ungraded inspection confirmed that Leigh Academy Tree Tops is providing pupils with an ambitious and inclusive education. The academy’s curriculum was particularly praised: “Starting from the early years, the curriculum is meticulously designed to develop pupils’ understanding, skills, and knowledge over time.” Pupils were commended for their use of subject-specific vocabulary, confidently applying terms such as “stippling,” “blending,” and “cross-hatching” to their learning in art.
The academy’s Principal, Denise White, reflected on the findings:
“This is a remarkable recognition of the dedication and hard work of our staff, pupils, and the wider community. At Tree Tops, we focus on preparing every child not only for academic success but also for life beyond the academy. The inspection team captured the essence of who we are—a place where every child is valued, supported, and inspired to achieve their best.”
The Ofsted report praised the academy’s exemplary provision for personal development, noting its focus on leadership opportunities such as the pupil parliament and house captain roles, alongside initiatives like the ‘chatterbox’, which encourages pupils to share their thoughts. Pupils’ communication skills and their ability to reflect on their goals were commended as part of the academy’s innovative “profile for success” framework.
Simon Beamish, CEO of Leigh Academies Trust, said:
“I am immensely proud of the progress made by Leigh Academy Tree Tops. The recognition from Ofsted is a testament to the exceptional leadership of Denise White and her team, who have worked tirelessly to create a culture of ambition, inclusivity, and success. I am confident that during the next inspection, Leigh Academy Tree Tops will achieve the outstanding judgement it so clearly deserves.”
The academy’s commitment to inclusivity was another area of strength. Ofsted noted the effective support in place for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), ensuring they achieve well across the curriculum. Early reading and mathematics were described as consistently strong, enabling pupils to become confident and fluent learners.
The inspection report also highlighted the academy’s role in preparing pupils to be global citizens. Pupils are encouraged to respect diversity, celebrate differences, and aim high for their future careers. Opportunities to engage in outdoor learning through the forest area, woodland walk, and science garden were also praised for bringing lessons to life.
Safeguarding was described as robust, with a strong culture of support ensuring pupils feel safe and secure at all times.
The full Ofsted report will be published soon on the official Ofsted website and a copy is enclosed.
