Attleborough Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 3 March 2026

Pupils are enthusiastic about their school. They appreciate that teachers know them well and provide the right balance of challenge and support. Many pupils join the school with attainment below national expectations. They greatly enjoy their learning. They work hard, rise to the challenge of the ambitious curriculum and take pride in their achievements. Pupils do well because teachers give them ample support to succeed. They get regular feedback and clear guidance to improve their work. Pupils are well supported to think hard and deepen their understanding. They enjoy the broad and engaging curriculum, including sports and technology. Pupils who have additional barriers to learning, such as special educational needs and/or disabilities, are quickly identified and given appropriate help to do well. Sometimes, this includes extra reading support to ensure that pupils access their lessons successfully. Leaders have established a highly inclusive culture where pupils thrive. Pupils value the wide range of clubs, trips and opportunities to share their views. They make good use of these activities and appreciate improvements made following their feedback, for example new toilets and handwashing stations. Many pupils participate in multiple experiences to develop their skills and interests. Leaders are proactive in ensuring that disadvantaged pupils regularly benefit from these opportunities. This ensures that different groups, including vulnerable pupils, are fully included in all aspects of the school. Pupils attend school regularly. They thrive in a calm and respectful environment. Staff are clear and consistent in supporting pupils to meet their high expectations. Pupils develop excellent relationships with their peers and staff. Bullying is rare. Staff deal with any concerns quickly and effectively. Initiatives such as the 'bystander programme' helps pupils to challenge any unkind behaviour. Pupils understand and respect each other's differences. They play an active role in ensuring the school is a positive and welcoming place to be.

What the school should improve

• Trustees should strengthen their oversight of safeguarding by assuring themselves that safeguarding records consistently provide a clear chronology of concerns, actions, and decisions taken so that patterns of risk can be identified and acted upon promptly.
• Leaders should continue to embed and sustain improvements to the curriculum and teaching so that pupils achieve highly, including in national examinations, across all key stages.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)