The inspection marked the school’s first under Ofsted’s new inspection framework, with the Inspectors commenting on the “significant improvements” that have been made in recent years since the school joined United Learning.  

Inspectors highlighted the “strong culture of care and inclusion” that has been fostered at George Eliot Academy. Inspectors credit this to the positive relationships that have been cultivated between pupils and staff, and the ambitions the school has for all pupils to succeed. Likewise, the Inspectors made clear that pupils are proud to attend the school and feel both valued and supported. 

Inspectors credit the school’s progress to the strong leadership at the school. This includes the “determined actions” of leaders which place “pupils’ best interests at heart”. 

Alongside a strong academic provision, pupils are said to benefit from a wide range of extra-curricular opportunities on offer, including clubs and events such as careers fairs, which lay the foundations to “prepare them well for adult life”. 

Homeira Zakary, Principal at George Eliot Academy, said: 

“I am extremely proud of all our pupils, my staff team and the entire school community for their commitment to ensuring George Eliot Academy is a thriving place to learn and flourish. This recognition from Ofsted is another positive step in the journey we are on as a school and a strong signal of our ability to provide an excellent education to our young people.” 

Ben Antell, Director of Secondary Academies at United Learning, said: 

“This excellent feedback is testament to the efforts of pupils and staff alike, all of whom should be very proud of their efforts. 

“It is particularly gratifying that Inspectors note the sense of belonging and pride that pupils feel to the school as part of the ‘George Eliot family’, notably through the positive relationships that have been fostered amongst pupils and staff. Congratulations to all involved.”