AN unflinching drive for improvement at a South Yorkshire academy has been recognised by education inspectors who have lifted it out of special measures amid high praise for its leaders and students.
The principal and senior leaders at Trinity Academy, in Thorne, have been "relentless in their pursuit of better teaching and outcomes for all groups of students", according to a new report.
Ofsted inspectors added: "The academy has come a long way since the previous inspection. This is due to the unflinching drive and determination shown by the Principal. He is strongly supported by members of his senior team. They have gained the support of the vast majority of staff in their resolve to improve the quality of teaching and to ensure that all students make the progress of which they are capable."
The academy was judged to require special measures following an inspection in December 2013 and since then has been through four monitoring inspections.
The level of improvement won a 'good' judgment for its 16-19 provision with students making better progress than the national norm in both academic and vocational subjects.
The head of sixth form and subject leaders are "diligent" in monitoring students' work and the quality of teaching and students receive "effective guidance" for their next steps.
"As a result no student leaves without a secure pathway for the future. An increasing number of students take up study places at university, many at top universities in the country," the inspectors said.
Elsewhere in the academy inspectors saw examples of well-planned lessons where students make rapid progress with bespoke programmes provided for those with particular difficulties. Collaboration between students "is a positive feature of many lessons".
Students have access to a range of opportunities and activities, which "help to develop their spiritual, moral, social and cultural awareness as they learn how to be a responsible citizen in the 21st century".
The inspectors said: "Students feel safe in the academy. They conduct themselves well, particularly outside of lessons. The vast majority of students are keen to learn, attend regularly and are proud of being at the academy."
The inspectors also praised the effectiveness of governors and the support of executive principals within the Emmanuel Schools Foundation.
Principal David Page said: "There are many positives in the report and we are delighted that the tenacity and sheer hard work of the staff team has been recognised. It has taken a determined effort by everyone and the progress we have made reflects our commitment to providing the very best education we can for Trinity students.
"There are still challenges to overcome but we have a clear understanding of what they are and plans in place to address them.
"We will continue to work to the highest level to raise aspirations and to set high standards for both staff and students to continue moving forward."