Ofsted inspector says: “Pupils’ focus in lessons is exemplary. From the earliest days in Nursery and Reception, the school’s high expectations are shared”

Northern Education Trust is delighted to announce that Norton Primary Academy has been judged by Ofsted to have improved significantly across all areas following its inspection on 7 and 8 January 2025. The academy was first judged to be GOOD in April 2019 and Ofsted have now confirmed that Norton Primary Academy has made significant improvements since its last inspection. The inspector stated that she could find no areas for improvement, which indicates that had it been a graded inspection, it would be OUTSTANDING in all areas. This could not have been achieved without the relentless hard work, commitment and determination from senior leaders, staff in the academy and the wider trust, the students and the support of trustees and governors.

The school is determined to help every pupil reach their potential
Pupils understand that the school, and all of the staff, want them to be the best they can be. The staff and leaders work together to encourage each child to embrace their strengths. To achieve this, Norton Primary Academy delivers a personal development curriculum that is broad and exciting. Ofsted recognised the ethos of kindness, belonging and safety which runs through the school and that staff are ambitious for pupil’s success. They found that pupil’s attitudes to their own learning is exceptional and their focus in lessons is exemplary.

The school places equal importance on pupils’ academic success and their character development
Ofsted recognised that children who attend Norton Primary Academy achieve well and are exceptionally well prepared for their next stages of education: “The well-designed, exciting curriculum supports pupils to learn effectively. Staff are ambitious for pupils’ success. This can be seen through the strong outcomes pupils achieve across the curriculum, including in national assessments. Pupils strive to always do their best. They are proud of their achievements.” Norton Primary Academy recognises that some children need extra support to thrive. Children with special educational needs and/or disabilities are quickly identified and supported to achieve well.

Children who attend Norton Primary Academy could confidently speak about the school’s values of ‘respect, resilience and kindness’. Adults form superb relationships with children and support and challenge them in equal measure. Pupils at Norton Primary Academy are exceptionally polite and well-mannered. They are thoughtful and considerate with their friends.

Michelle Randall-Harris, Principal said “I am absolutely delighted that Ofsted have recognised the incredible efforts that all stakeholders make on a daily basis. The improving status of the school and the fact Ofsted could not find any areas for improvement is a true testament to the hard work of our talented and dedicated staff, students, trustees and governors who have made this possible. We have high aspirations for every single one of our students. I am so pleased that Ofsted have recognised a culture of kindness, inclusivity and support at Norton Primary, and the high quality of education we provide. We will continue to make choices to benefit all children with the aim to improve life chances.”