Tamworth Enterprise College (TEC) has achieved a ‘good’ rating in all areas for the first time following its latest Ofsted inspection, marking a turnaround for the school.
Inspectors praised the Staffordshire school's “purposeful atmosphere” and the students' dedication to learning, noting that they “focus on their learning well and work hard”.
The report highlighted the shared “high aspirations” of both staff and students, attributing this to the school's virtues programme, which encourages students to be “unusually brave” and “discover what's possible”.
Ofsted also commended the school's commitment to personal development, mental health, and well-being. Students are given opportunities to take on leadership roles as ambassadors, fostering a sense of responsibility and ownership, the report said. The inspectors observed “warm, respectful, and nurturing” relationships between staff and students, creating a safe environment where students feel comfortable seeking support.
Inspectors praised the school's "STRIVE" programme which offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including musical theatre, sports, and debates, enriching the students' educational experience.
TEC Principal Jonathon Spears said:
I am absolutely delighted that Ofsted has recognised how much work we have put in to improve TEC from ‘requires improvement’ in all areas, to ‘good’ in all areas.
When I became head of school two years ago, I was determined that our students, staff and the school community would see rapid improvement, and we have achieved that. I am so proud of everyone who has helped to make TEC a good school, across the board.
This achievement represents a substantial improvement since the school's previous inspection. Ofsted acknowledged the significant changes implemented, noting that “the school has raised expectations around learning and behaviour” and developed a “highly ambitious and well-sequenced” curriculum.
The school's support for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) was also praised. Inspectors highlighted the school's prompt identification of SEND pupils and the teachers' ability to “adapt their teaching to meet those needs”. Furthermore, the school's emphasis on reading, with “specialist teaching” to address weaknesses in phonics, grammar, or comprehension, was recognised as a key strength.
Nabila Jiwa, Regional Education Director at Lift Schools, said:
It is brilliant that Ofsted has recognised the transformation of Tamworth Enterprise College. Jonathon, and his entire team, have worked incredibly hard to improve the school. We are looking forward to continuing the good work, with great results for our students.”
Inspectors highlight a “well planned” personal, social, health and economic (PSHE) curriculum, and a “comprehensive and high quality careers programme” for all students. Not only are pupils “enthusiastic” about the careers programme, says Ofsted, it also “prepares them well for the next stages of their lives".
