Weldon Village Academy, part of Meridian Trust, is celebrating the publication of its first Ofsted report, following an inspection on 7th July 2026.
The school, which opened to its first pupils in 2023, was judged to be operating at the ‘Expected Standard’ across all six areas of Ofsted’s new inspection framework: ‘Achievement’, ‘Attendance and behaviour’, ‘Curriculum and teaching’, ‘Inclusion’, ‘Leadership and governance’, and ‘Personal development and wellbeing’.
Ofsted highlighted the strong sense of community that has developed at Weldon Village Academy in the short time since its opening. Inspectors found that “pupils are welcomed to this growing school that leaders have ensured has retained a family feel” and that “pupils are known and understood by leaders and staff.”
Pupils themselves value this approach, with the report noting that they “feel as sense of belonging at the school”. Inspectors also praised the inclusive and collaborative culture, where pupils have opportunities to build relationships and develop their social skills through working with their peers, including during tutor time and social time.
Matt Norris, Principal of Weldon Village Academy, said: “We’re really pleased to see the hard work of our students, staff and families reflected in this Ofsted report. As a growing school, it’s particularly important to us that we maintain the close-knit, supportive culture that makes Weldon such a special place to be.”
“The report recognises the strong relationships across our school and the sense of belonging our pupils feel, alongside the progress they are making in their learning and personal development. We know there is always more to do, and we will continue to build on these foundations as our school community grows.”
Alongside its culture and community, the report highlighted the progress pupils are making from their individual starting points. Ofsted found that “leaders know their school and its pupils well” and understand where the strategies are working effectively and where further improvements can be made. Inspectors also noted that “leaders have made sure that pupils generally process well from their starting points.”
The report was also positive about the progress of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, stating that “typically, pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities achieve well.” Inspectors noted that: “Leaders care about the emotional and mental health of their pupils. They provide pastoral support that helps pupils to engage well in school life.”
Pupils’ wider development is another important part of life at Weldon Village Academy. Inspectors recognised the school’s “well-structured personal development and wellbeing programme”, which supports pupils to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence they need both inside and beyond the classroom.
This includes preparing pupils for their future, with Ofsted noting that “disadvantaged pupils achieve in line with their peer nationally” and that “pupils are ready for the next stage of their education.” The report adds that pupils develop the knowledge and skills they need to make choices about life beyond school and achieve their goals.
Inspectors praised leadership at the school describing how “leaders and the Trust are focused on doing the right thing for pupils and staff”, recognising that leadership at the school maintains “a clear focus on supporting staff wellbeing”.
Mark Woods, CEO of Meridian Trust, add: “This is an encouraging first report for Weldon Village Academy and reflects the commitment of Matt, his team and the whole school community. It is particularly pleasing to see the recognition of the strong relationships and extra-curricular opportunities at Weldon, alongside the progress pupils are making. These are important foundations for a growing school.
“The report also provides a clear focus for the next stage of Weldon’s development, and we look forward to supporting the academy as they continue to work hard to ensure every pupil has the support they need to achieve their potential.”
