Meadowgate Academy in Wisbech is rated 'Outstanding' by Ofsted for a third time a row

Pupils are kept safe and flourish at a Fenland special school which has once again been rated as ‘Outstanding’ by government inspectors.

Ofted inspectors visited Meadowgate Academy, in Wisbech, over two days at the start of last month and were impressed by what they found.

In the report published last week the Kim Hall, lead inspector and inspector Kay Leach, praised the leadership and the pupils’ behaviour.

They said: “Pupils thrive at Meadowgate. Leaders have created a haven where pupils learn well, are kept safe and flourish. Pupils learn to communicate effectively with adults. Pupils are positive about the school. They say adults listen to them and that bullying is not an issue. Pupils say that learning is fun and that they make friends.”

The report said pupils’ behaviour is “excellent” in classrooms and during social times such as lunch break. They follow a well established routine and use their specialist equipment and electronic devices through the school day.

It went on: “The school is a calm, productive and respectful learning environment. Learning proceeds easily and without disruption. Adults meet the needs of pupils with complex special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) exceptionally well. Staff have excellent relationships with pupils and want them to do well. Teachers provide pupils with work that is both demanding and interesting.

“Students in the sixth form relish the opportunities to gain vocational skills at Bramleys Café, in horticulture or in mechanics. Students are well prepared for the next stage of their education or employment. Some pupils develop leadership skills through participating in police cadets. They wear their uniform with pride.”

The inspectors found: “This school has many strengths. Leaders work together as a strong and effective team. They are aspirational for every pupil. All adults are dedicated to establishing better life chances for pupils. Pupils develop essential communication and language skills from the

moment they join the school.

Pupils enjoy a well-constructed curriculum. Leaders give careful thought to what pupils will learn in each subject. Staff adapt the curriculum to meet pupils’ individual SEND needs. Adults know what pupils need to learn to make the best academic and personal progress.

This is the third time since 2011 that the school has been rated as ‘Outstanding’ and it is the second time Meadowgate has undergone a Section 8 inspection, which is carried out on schools that were rated ‘Outstanding’ previously to ensure they are maintaining their standards.

Meadowgate Academy was previously Meadowgate School which is when it was originally rated ‘Outstanding’ in 2011.

Headteacher Michelle Flanz said she was delighted with the inspectors' findings and praised staff and pupils for their hardwork in keeping Meadowgate as an 'Outstanding' school.