Co-op Academy Hamilton celebrates exceptional Ofsted report

Co-op Academy Hamilton is celebrating after inspectors recognised the strength of its education, inclusion and support for pupils in a highly positive Ofsted report.
The Stoke-on-Trent primary school achieved a Strong Standard judgement across every category inspected under Ofsted's new framework. This includes achievement, attendance and behaviour, curriculum and teaching, early years, inclusion, leadership and governance, and personal development and wellbeing. Safeguarding was also found to be effective.
Inspectors described Hamilton as a place where "pupils flourish at this highly inclusive school" and said pupils are "very well prepared for the next stage of their education."
The report highlights the school's ambitious curriculum, high-quality teaching and unwavering commitment to inclusion. Inspectors found that leaders and staff know pupils exceptionally well and hold high ambitions for every child, regardless of their needs or circumstances.
The positive culture across the school was also recognised, with inspectors noting that attendance is above national figures and that pupils enjoy coming to school and taking part in learning and wider school life.
Early years provision was praised for giving children "a highly effective start to their education", while inspectors found that pupils achieve highly across the curriculum. The report also highlights that the proportion of pupils meeting the expected standard in phonics is consistently above national averages.
Throughout the inspection, inclusion emerged as one of the school's greatest strengths. Inspectors noted that pupils feel "valued, understood and supported" and that all children are able to take part fully in school life.
The report also recognised the school's culture and values, describing breaktimes and lunchtimes as "joyful and harmonious" and highlighting the kindness, respect and positive attitudes demonstrated by pupils every day.
Yvonne Glaister, Headteacher at Co-op Academy Hamilton, said:
"We are incredibly proud of this report because it reflects what our school community works so hard to achieve every day. We want every child to feel happy, safe, supported and able to succeed, regardless of their starting point or circumstances.
"The report recognises the dedication of our staff, the enthusiasm of our pupils and the fantastic support we receive from families. It is especially pleasing to see our inclusive approach and strong relationships highlighted so positively by inspectors."
Dr Chris Tomlinson, CEO of Co-op Academies Trust, added:
"This is a fantastic achievement for everyone connected with Co-op Academy Hamilton. To be recognised as operating at a Strong Standard in every category is a reflection of the relentless commitment of colleagues, pupils and families.
"What stands out throughout the report is the impact the school is having on children's lives. Inspectors saw a school where pupils thrive, where inclusion shapes daily life and where every child is supported to achieve their very best. We are incredibly proud of the whole school community and staff team. This is richly deserved and well earned."
A huge congratulations to the whole Hamilton community.