TBAP Octavia AP Academy rated ‘good’ by Ofsted
TBAP Octavia Alternative Provision (AP) Academy in Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, has been rated as ‘Good’ by Ofsted following an inspection in May.
Ofsted highlighted the quality of care learners receive from staff and leaders, ensuring all learners are motivated and looked after throughout the day.
The leadership’s increase in school improvement was also highlighted, with specific reference to tightened monitoring systems and investment in staff development.
According to Ofsted, staff use effective strategies and skilful interventions to support learners’ significant social, emotional and mental health needs. Ofsted also reports that learners appreciated the tenacity and patience of staff.
TBAP Octavia’s results have improved dramatically since it became part of TBAP in 2016, with 89 per cent of Year 11 learners achieving five or more GCSEs or equivalent in 2018, compared to 40 per cent in 2016. This compares to the latest available national average for AP schools of 12.3 per cent. Accreditation was achieved by 100 per cent of learners and attendance has increased from 55 per cent in 2016 to over 80 per cent in 2018.
Nick Morley, head of school, said: “I am delighted with our Ofsted report. Our team goes above and beyond for all our learners. We are driven by an unflinching desire to find solutions for our learners and we never give up on them. Over the past three years, we have developed dedicated processes and a curriculum so every learner enjoys a memorable learning experience. This ensures learners can progress successfully to the next stage of their education.”
Examples of development at Octavia AP Academy include the nurturing of good relationships with all local commissioning schools and partnerships with community multi-agencies including a local farm. Progress has also been made by the Academy’s Educational Psychologist regarding the application of Trauma Informed Practice and Attachment Theory to identify and address behaviours such as emotional avoidance.
Nick Morley adds, “TBAP Octavia’s future is very bright, we aim to be a centre of excellence as a Flagship AP Academy. We are working towards the Gold Inclusion Quality Mark (IQM) and have recently been awarded an LGBT+ Rainbow Flag award by the Kite Trust for outstanding and continued development. We also have plans to introduce the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme for learners.”
Seamus Oates, chief executive officer, TBAP Trust, said, “Octavia AP Academy is great example of a TBAP Academy delivering excellent outcomes. Well done to staff and learners at Octavia, who have made excellent progress over the last three years.”
