Improvements at Iceni Secondary Academy in Methwold Recognised by Ofsted
Iceni Secondary Academy in Methwold shows positive progress, with Ofsted noting improvements in behavior and leadership despite needing educational enhancements.
Iceni Secondary Academy, Methwold, Thetford, Ofsted, Education Improvement
Methwold: School leaders are excited about the positive changes at Iceni Secondary Academy. The school was inspected by Ofsted on December 3 and 4.
While the education quality needs improvement, students’ behavior and personal development received good ratings. The leadership and management also scored well.
In the last inspection in 2020, four out of five areas needed improvement. The school and its trust, the Academy Transformation Trust, are pleased with the recent progress.
The school stated that the inspection highlighted significant improvements, thanks to the hard work of staff and students. They are committed to continuous improvement.
The Ofsted report noted that the trust is working with school leaders to address long-term issues. They are focusing on improving behavior and support for students.
Inspectors found the curriculum broad and ambitious. The school is raising behavior expectations, and attendance is improving.
According to the report, Iceni is a safe and calm learning environment. Students enjoy being there and appreciate the support from caring staff.
Inspectors also praised the orderly behavior and eagerness to learn among students. They engage well with the school’s values: aim high, work hard, and be kind.
The principal, Richard Rushton, is leading a clear drive for improvement. The academy is working hard to overcome past challenges and enhance teaching quality.
However, there are areas needing attention. Students with special educational needs require better support, and the school needs to improve its assessment methods and parent engagement.
Iceni has 584 students and will become an 11-16 school starting September 2024. The principal was appointed in September 2023.