A school that changes lives

Inspectors were clear: Oastlers provides an exceptional standard of education, with pupils making impressive progress from their starting points and leaving fully prepared for the next stage of their lives.

Despite many pupils joining the school having experienced challenges in their previous education, the school supports them to achieve a strong set of qualifications and move on to sustained education, training or employment.

The report highlights what we see across the Trust time and again – education that genuinely transforms life chances.

Belonging, trust and ambition

One of the strongest messages from inspectors is the culture at Oastlers. Pupils develop a real sense of belonging and are known, supported and championed by staff.

Behaviour is described as exceptional, with pupils demonstrating high levels of self-discipline, respect and independence.

Relationships between staff and pupils are built on trust, helping create a calm, positive and purposeful learning environment.

Perhaps most powerfully, pupils themselves spoke about the impact of the school on their lives, with one saying:

“I have learned to want more from life. This school has helped me believe that I can achieve it.”

Curriculum and teaching that meet every need

Inspectors praised the school’s carefully designed and highly adaptable curriculum, which is tailored to meet the individual needs of every pupil.

Teaching is consistently strong, with staff expertly identifying gaps in knowledge and supporting pupils to build secure foundations in reading, writing and mathematics.

Alongside this, a creative and personalised curriculum helps re-engage pupils in learning and equips them with valuable skills for life.

Inclusion at its very best

Oastlers was recognised for its outstanding inclusive practice, with leaders working closely with families and external professionals to ensure every pupil receives the right support from day one.

The report highlights the school’s relentless commitment to removing barriers and enabling all pupils to thrive both academically and personally.

Exceptional leadership and governance

Inspectors also recognised the strength of leadership and governance, noting the school’s sustained improvement and unwavering focus on pupils’ needs.

Leaders were praised for making “sophisticated and courageous decisions” and for their wider influence, including contributing to developments in SEND provision beyond the school itself.

Preparing young people for life

From personal development and wellbeing to careers education and post-16 pathways, Oastlers ensures pupils are ready for adulthood and future success.

Pupils benefit from a wide range of experiences, including employer engagement, visits and enrichment opportunities, helping them build confidence, independence and ambition for the future.

A proud moment for the Trust

This outcome reflects the collective effort of staff, pupils, families and governors, supported by the wider Exceed Academies Trust community.

Oastlers is not only delivering exceptional outcomes for its own pupils, but also helping shape practice more widely – a school others can learn from, exactly as Ofsted describes.

Final word

This is more than an inspection result – it is recognition of a school that is changing lives every day.

We could not be prouder of everyone involved.