Leigh Academies Trust is delighted to announce that Leigh Academy Molehill has been judged Outstanding in all areas following its recent Ofsted inspection on 10th and 11th December 2024. This significant achievement reflects the academy’s unwavering commitment to excellence and its dedication to transforming the lives of its pupils.
Inspectors commended the school for its ‘endless ambition’ and ability to ensure that every pupil thrives, starting from early years. The report praised the school’s ambitious and innovative curriculum, its commitment to inclusivity, as well as the exemplary behaviour and attitudes of its pupils.
Laura Smith, Principal of Leigh Academy Molehill, commented:
“At Leigh Academy Molehill, we are driven by a strong moral purpose to do whatever it takes to create better life opportunities for our pupils – they deserve the very best. This outstanding judgement reflects the high expectations we hold for ourselves and for our children; it evidences the exceptional efforts of our staff, pupils, and wider community. Our pledge is to provide every pupil with the knowledge, skills, self-belief, and ambition to succeed in their learning and their lives. I am immensely proud of our school and the difference we are making together.”
The Ofsted report highlighted numerous strengths, including:
- A ‘highly ambitious curriculum’ delivered through the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme, which enables pupils to connect learning creatively across subjects, such as applying geographical knowledge to create impactful art inspired by Banksy.
- ‘Dedicated and skilful staff remove barriers to ensure that all pupils including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) learn well’, this ensures that they achieve exceptionally well and fully participate in school life.
- A systematic approach to teaching phonics, enabling pupils to read with ‘impressive accuracy and confidence’.
- An exceptional focus on personal development, with initiatives such as ‘Culture Day’ fostering respect, resilience, and leadership among pupils.
Inspectors also celebrated the academy’s nurturing and inclusive culture, where pupils demonstrate impeccable manners, a strong commitment to the school’s values, and a deep respect for diversity and equality.
Simon Beamish, CEO of Leigh Academies Trust, said:
“The transformation of Leigh Academy Molehill over the past decade has been nothing short of meteoric. When the school joined Leigh Academies Trust in 2015 from another trust, it was judged to be inadequate and faced significant challenges. Through the leadership of Laura Smith and her team, combined with the hard work of pupils and the support of the community and Trust, the academy has truly earned this judgement. This is a remarkable achievement that reflects the highest standards of education and care, and I could not be prouder of what Leigh Academy Molehill has accomplished.”
The inspection also confirmed that safeguarding measures are robust, and attendance is strong, with pupils eager to participate in the academy’s vibrant and inclusive learning environment, ‘ensuring that pupils receive the best possible education’.
