Ofsted inspectors visited Grieg City Academy, in High Street, Hornsey, on January 14 and 15 for an ungraded inspection.
The purpose was to see whether it had maintained standards since its last graded inspection in 2019, when it was judged ‘good’ in quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, leadership and management and sixth form provision and ‘outstanding’ for personal development.
The report, published on March 4, said it had, starting: “This is a happy school. Pupils enjoy attending and relish the many opportunities the school offers them.
“The school supports pupils to find their educational passion and develop their subject expertise.”
Inspectors described the curriculum as “distinctive”, with opportunities for pupils to specialise in Mandarin, science, technology, engineering or mathematics.
“They thrive as a result of the wider opportunities related to their specialism, such as a visit to China to practise their language skills, they added.
The report highlighted the academy’s “inspirational” personal development programme, saying its “rich selection” of clubs gives pupils the chance to develop their talents and interests.
It went on: “Some pupils take their skills to the highest level. For example, pupils compete at a national level in dance competitions and at sailing regattas on the south coast.
“In the bee-keeping club, pupils from all year groups build a beehive, care for the bees and harvest and sell the honey.”
Inspectors said teachers had “strong” subject knowledge, writing: “Staff love teaching here and are very committed to the school.”
However, inspectors said teachers do not consistently ensure pupils receive the support they need to move their learning on, meaning some pupils struggle to complete more demanding tasks, while others are not stretched.
And they noted that the proportion of pupils who are persistently absent has risen recently, as well as a rise in the proportion of pupils suspended following pupils’ return after the COVID-19 pandemic. While measures had bee put in place, it was too early to see the results.
They said governors and trustees should have more “oversight” over school processes as they “are limited in their ability to identify where the school’s practice could be improved, for example in relation to the use of suspensions.”
Cllr Zena Brabazon, Haringey Council’s lead member for children, schools & families, said teachers and pupils “should be incredibly proud of this achievement”.
She added: “The opportunities available to our children are endless.
“This reflects the essence of education – helping children gain the skills, confidence, and experiences they need to thrive and achieve their full potential.
Ann Graham, Haringey’s director of children’s services, said: “Creating the right environment for children and ensuring they are taught by the most inspiring role models is essential throughout their educational journey.
“In Haringey, this continues to be our top priority, and it is truly wonderful to receive such encouraging feedback about our schools. Seeing our vision and ethos successfully brought to life is fantastic.
“A huge congratulations to everyone who made this achievement possible.”
