The school, part of East Midlands Academy Trust, was recognised by Ofsted
inspectors for its respectful relationships between staff and pupils and for the children’s impressive understanding of tolerance and respect for others.

Following the inspection in June, Orchard Academy achieved the expected standard for attendance and behaviour, curriculum and teaching, inclusion, leadership and governance, and personal development and wellbeing.

The report says: “This diverse, vibrant school is inclusive of everyone. Staff and pupils enjoy positive and respectful relationships, which contribute to a strong sense of community. Staff know pupils well and create an environment where pupils feel confident to be themselves. One pupil said, ‘We know we are all stronger if we are together’.”

The report praised the school’s high expectations for behaviour, strong support for disadvantaged pupils and pupil’s increasingly good progress from their starting points.

There was also praise for its specialist provision Aspen, where inspectors reported ‘high-quality teaching from highly trained staff’.

The inspection also recognised the ongoing improvements taking place at Orchard Academy, which are helping to ensure consistent teaching and improving pupil outcomes.

Head of School Ellen Williams said: “I am incredibly proud that this report recognises the high standards and respectful culture we uphold here at Orchard Academy. Our pupils feel strongly about inclusion and respecting different faiths and cultures, and that creates the caring school community we have.

“I am also pleased that our significant efforts to further improve the quality of teaching and pupil outcomes have been recognised.

“This is a strong Ofsted report and I’d like to thank our staff, parents and, most importantly, our children for making Orchard Academy the wonderful school it is.”

The full report is available to read here.