Students and staff at Shoreham Academy in West Sussex are celebrating being judged an ‘Outstanding’ school in their latest Ofsted inspection, with the highest possible judgement in all categories, including for its Sixth Form.
Known locally for many years for its academic success, the Inspectors’ report reiterates that Shoreham Academy is an excellent school. Following what was its first inspection in over a decade, the Inspectors were full of praise for staff members at the school, who are described as “deeply invested” in inspiring their students.
Sixth Form students in particular are said to not only benefit from “high-quality teaching”, but also from “extensive wider opportunities” to encourage their strength of character. As such, they are seen as “vital ambassadors for the school”.
Inspectors were once again left extremely impressed by the school more widely, which has been oversubscribed for many years, describing it as a place that is “determined” that every student succeeds, regardless of their background or needs.
Equally students across the school are said to benefit from the “focused and vibrant atmosphere” of the school, which alongside a “rigorous, broad and highly effective” curriculum means they achieve well in their subjects.
Inspectors identified a particular strength of the school in the efforts made to understand and support the needs of all students. This includes the school’s provision for students with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), whose needs are met “extremely well”, such that they still “excel alongside their peers”.
Likewise, the Inspectors recognised the importance and success of the academy’s focus on ‘education with character’, which ensures that students are “exceptionally well prepared” for life beyond school.
Jim Coupe, Principal at Shoreham Academy, said of the outcome:
“We are incredibly proud that our school has once again been judged ‘Outstanding’. It is particularly gratifying to have retained this outcome after all these years, which serves as a testament to the consistently high standards held by everyone across the school.
“I would like to thank the entire school community for their ongoing support and commitment to helping all our students thrive during their time at Shoreham Academy and beyond.”
Erin Burke, Sixth Form student who has been at the school since Year 7, also said:
“Shoreham Academy is a great school with amazing teachers and opportunities. The support offered by the teachers inspires me to do my best and feel confident in my learning – especially in the maths department!”
Laura Bourner, another student who joined the school in Sixth Form from Davison High School in Worthing, said:
“At Shoreham Academy, the teachers and other staff always go above and beyond to support all students in their work. The teachers are always supportive and happy to help all students in what they want to achieve.”
Daisy Carter, in Year 9 wanted to talk about the support they get from the school’s inclusion team.
‘I love the inclusion area at my school because it’s my safe space and whenever I go to the office there is always someone there to help me. Everyone who works here always has a smile on their face and I feel very lucky’.