North Cambridge Academy, part of Meridian Trust, is proud to announce the results of its latest Ofsted inspection. The report reflected that the academy has successfully maintained the high standards identified in its previous inspection in 2018.
The inspection, which took place on the 4th and 5th February, highlights the academy’s unwavering commitment to “high ambitions and expectations for its pupils.” Inspectors commented that “staff support pupils well with their next steps by reducing barriers and raising aspirations.”
According to the report, a key strength of North Cambridge Academy is its strong partnerships with local businesses and universities, which “enable pupils to access engaging opportunities that broaden their horizons and support them to ‘aim high’.” As a result, “many pupils, including the most able, achieve well” and “move on to a range of high-quality colleges and workplaces.”
The academy recently won the Collaboration Award at the 2024 Cambridge Independent Business Awards. The award recognised the collaboration between North Cambridge Academy, Costello Medical, and the Stephen Perse Foundation.
The report also celebrates the academy’s welcoming and diverse community. Inspectors commented that “increased expectations around behaviour and improved school routines enable pupils to behave well. Pupils treat each other and staff with respect.”
Principal, Jane Driver expressed her pride in the academy’s continued success, stating: “We are delighted that this inspection reflects the dedication and hard work of our entire school community. Maintaining our high standards despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, ongoing building work, and a growing pupil population is a testament to our incredible staff, pupils, and families.
“We look forward to building on this success in the future, particularly as we unveil the next phase of our redevelopment at NCA. The transformation of our facilities is already making a significant impact, with the new main hall quickly becoming a vibrant hub of school life, recently hosting our spectacular production of High School Musical in February. These new spaces will provide our students with incredible opportunities to explore their creativity, develop their skills, and thrive in an inspiring learning environment.”
A range of effective therapies, support, and care is in place for pupils and the report celebrates how “staff care about helping pupils to do their best” and “pupils trust the staff in their ‘houses’ to sort out any issues, such as bullying, if they arise.”
Beyond the classroom, North Cambridge Academy offers a rich and diverse range of extracurricular activities. The report references the community café, for example, which provides a social space where pupils can connect with friends after school. Inspectors commented “pupils talk proudly about the variety of leadership and other opportunities on offer.”
While the report acknowledges the academy’s many strengths, it also highlights areas where they can continue to improve, particularly in ensuring that all lessons are consistently adapted to meet the additional needs of pupils. North Cambridge Academy will continue to build on its approach to ensure that every student receives the tailored support they need to succeed.
Mark Woods, CEO of Meridian Trust, added: “North Cambridge Academy’s continued success is a testament to its unwavering commitment to excellence. Since joining Meridian Trust in 2013, the academy has been recognised by Ofsted three times for its high-quality provision, reflecting the significant and sustained improvements made over the years.
“This achievement is made possible by the strong partnerships, ambitious vision, and dedication of staff across our Trust, all working together to create an environment where pupils can truly thrive. Congratulations to everyone who contributed to this fantastic outcome.”