OAKWOOD High School has become the first secondary school in the borough to be evaluated under Ofsted’s newly renewed inspection framework, securing the "Expected Standard" across every category of judgement.

The inspection, conducted over two days January 27-28 2026, marks a significant milestone for the school and the Inspire Learning Trust. The new 'report card' published this week describes the school as a "harmonious and happy community," with inspectors praising the academy for its inclusive culture and academic consistency.

Phil Storey, head of school, said: "We are delighted with findings from the inspection, in particular that the inspectors were able to identify over the two days, what we as school leaders are proud to be part of everyday – a school that is built on positive relationships, where mutual respect and care is at the heart of everything that we do. It reflects the incredible dedication of our staff, the hard work of our students, and the ongoing support of our community."

OFSTED moved to the new report card system in November 2025, aiming to provide parents and carers with a more detailed, accessible picture of a setting’s performance across multiple areas, rather than the previous top-level summary.

Praise: Oakwood High School student leaders with head of school Phil Storey, left, and deputy head Samantha Hartley, right

placeholder image — Praise: Oakwood High School student leaders with head of school Phil Storey, left, and deputy head Samantha Hartley, right

Under the updated framework, achieving the Expected Standard signifies that a school is fully meeting the rigorous requirements of education and care set out in national professional standards. It confirms that a school, on Moorgate Road, is fulfilling its statutory duties effectively and providing a high-quality education.

The report highlights several key areas of strength that contribute to the school's success. It stresses how all expectations around safeguarding are being met, noting "that leaders and those responsible for governance and oversight fulfil their specific responsibilities and have established an open culture in which safeguarding is everyone's responsibility and concerns are actively identified, acted upon and managed".

This status confirms that leaders have established an environment where safeguarding is a shared responsibility and pupils feel safe.

The report goes on to provide a summary of each of the inspection areas, highlighting a school where academic success and personal growth go hand in hand. In terms of achievement, pupils – including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) – generally achieve well and are thoroughly prepared for their next steps in education or employment. GCSE results are typically in line with national averages, with performance in English singled out as being particularly strong.

Setting the standard: Oakwood High School's head of school Phil Storey

This success is underpinned by an ambitious curriculum where teachers use clear explanations and effective strategies to check for understanding. Specifically, recent developments in mathematics, art, and science are already noted for having a positive impact on pupil understanding.

The school environment is described as a "harmonious community" where pupils from diverse backgrounds, faiths, and ethnicities get along well. This culture of mutual respect between staff and pupils ensures a calm and orderly atmosphere throughout the building. Attendance is high and continues to improve, supported by tracking systems that are praised as being "highly effective".

The inspection team, led by Michael Wardle, His Majesty’s Inspector, also commended the school's "Student Leaders" for making meaningful contributions to school life.