School praised for its “friendly and welcoming” environment 

Inspectors found the school’s curriculum to be “rich and ambitious

Ofsted Inspectors have judged that Nova Hreod Academy “continues to be a good school” in the school’s first routine inspection since the COVID-19 pandemic began.

Following their November visit, Inspectors have praised Nova for being a “friendly and welcoming school” where students are able to enjoy a “calm and purposeful learning environment”. Their report also notes that students have a “positive attitude towards school” and that they are “respectful towards their peers, staff and visitors”. 

The quality of the education offered at the academy is said to be high. Inspectors observed that students “benefit from a rich and ambitious curriculum” and that “teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge”. Importantly, “leaders have high expectations of pupils” who “take pride in the work they produce”. The report makes clear that all students are well supported in their learning, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.

In addition to providing an excellent academic education, the school also ensures that it offers a range of extracurricular activities and trips to supplement and enrich students’ learning. Inspectors commend the ‘SuperNova’ enrichment programme which supports students’ personal development through clubs and volunteering opportunities. This sits alongside “a detailed programme of careers advice” which allows students to best prepare for life beyond school.

Nick Wells, Headteacher at Nova Hreod Academy, said:

“I am thrilled that Ofsted has confirmed Nova continues to be a good school. This outcome is down to our staff’s determination to deliver an education with character to our young people, as well as to our students’ impressive dedication to their studies. Thank you to everyone across our school community who has played a role in ensuring we are providing a high-quality education to our students. We look forward to building on this report so that future generations of students can continue to benefit from all that Nova has to offer.”

Dame Sally Coates, Director of Secondary Education at United Learning, said:

“The Inspectors’ feedback is testament to the enduring hard work of staff across the school who, under the leadership of Headteacher Nick Wells, have continued to foster a supportive and ambitious learning culture. Alongside providing a strong academic education, it is clear that Nova places great importance in preparing its young people to lead successful lives beyond school. This report is a solid foundation upon which the school can continue to build.”