Bradford school Dixons Marchbank Academy in glowing Ofsted visit

Inspectors visited Dixons Marchbank Academy, on Barkerend Road, in April for a section 8 visit.

This type of inspection is carried out when Ofsted has judged a school to be good and then visits once every four years to confirm it remains so.

Inspectors said pupils enjoy lessons

A report from the inspection said: “There is enough evidence of improved performance to suggest that the school could be judged outstanding if we were to carry out a section 5 inspection now.”

It added: “Pupils enjoy their lessons and attend regularly. They are proud to be a part of the school community.

“They feel safe at the school and have many adults to speak to if issues arise.

“Pupils say that bullying happens rarely. They are confident that staff sort out problems when they arise.

“Highly motivated, dedicated staff inspire pupils at the school to reach their potential. There are very high levels of mutual respect between teachers and pupils. Pupils are attentive in their lessons and are keen to work hard.”

The school could be outstanding, Ofsted said

It added: "The drive to raise standards in reading has been successful. Pupils can read confidently and fluently at an early age.

"Those pupils who require additional help to read receive the support they need. Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are well supported throughout school.

"Their needs are understood, and leaders have allocated additional staff to strengthen the support pupils receive."

The report said Marchbank's values of commitment, teamwork and enjoyment are “embedded throughout school".

It said: “Pupils get on with each other impeccably in and out of lessons.”

Inspectors said pupils know about the values it is important to show when living in modern Britain and highlighted the school had been recognised for its work to promote mental health awareness.

Inspectors said pupils behave impeccably

School principal Helen Haunch said: “We are delighted with this report. At Marchbank, we are committed to providing the best educational experiences for our pupils to achieve their full potential.

“We are so proud of the hard work and dedication from our staff, pupils and local community, who work together to make our school an amazing place to learn and work.”

Sir Nick Weller, CEO of Dixons Academies Trust, added: “Dixons Marchbank Academy is an excellent school with staff who do whatever it takes to deliver the best outcomes for their pupils.

“This is evidenced through the impressive strengths and improvements noted in this inspection. This report is a credit to the entire community that Marchbank serves.”