A school for children with learning difficulties in Salford has been rated outstanding by Ofsted again. Oakwood Academy, on Chatsworth Road in Eccles, is a school for pupils who have special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) which was described by inspectors as an “exceptionally nurturing community.” It was rated outstanding on its previous inspections in November 2017 and July 2013. The school has pupils in Years 5 to 13 and is part of the Kings Academy Trust. Inspectors found that staff care for pupils “deeply”, and that the children are kind to each other and demonstrate “remarkable” behaviour during lessons. Staff at the school help pupils to “overcome their barriers to learning” by guiding them along the process. Ofsted highlighted a particular love of reading at the school, where pupils get “highly effective support” from staff. The report also praised the harmonious atmosphere, and were impressed at how quickly young people attending Oakwood Academy felt a sense of belonging. Pupils’ mental health is a key concern at the school, and in the sixth form yoga and mindfulness sessions are used to support learners. Headteacher Lisa Southwood said: “We are very proud of the amazing feedback we have received from Ofsted. The inspectors highly congratulated us and clearly stated that Ofsted have raised the bar and it is now very difficult to maintain an outstanding judgement. “I feel extremely honoured to lead our school. I would like to thank all pupils, staff, parents/carers, governors and Kings Academy Trust for their ongoing hard work and support for our school as we continue to provide outstanding education for the children of Oakwood Academy.”
