City of Norwich School, An Ormiston Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 30 June 2026

Pupils are happy at this caring, inclusive school. Pupils' wellbeing is a high priority. The school has high expectations for all pupils, including those with barriers to learning. Staff are ambitious for everyone to succeed. As a result, pupils develop a clear sense of belonging and feel part of the school community. Generally, most pupils, therefore, attend well. Bullying is rare, but if an issue arises, pupils know who to report their concerns to. Pupils are confident that staff will resolve issues because they know their teachers care. Consequently, pupils feel safe. The school has high expectations for behaviour. Pupils agree that positive behaviour in lessons enables them to focus on their learning. Behaviour around the site is orderly. Music is an important feature of the school. Pupils' piano playing in communal areas enhances the calm environment at breaktimes and lunchtimes. Pupils enjoy their lessons. Staff identify pupils who need additional support and provide the help they need. This means that everyone can complete the tasks set. Teachers plan activities that help pupils remember what they learned previously. As a result, pupils demonstrate a secure understanding of what they learn. Their work shows that pupils, including those with barriers to learning, make progress through the curriculum. They develop the knowledge and skills they need for their next steps in education or employment. The school offers a wealth of pupil leadership opportunities, clubs and trips. Pupils see these as strengths of the school and many participate. The personal development programme prepares pupils well for later life. They learn about the world of work. Pupils have a secure understanding of topics, such as healthy relationships, drug and alcohol misuse and online safety. They learn to respect and celebrate difference. This means that they are well prepared for life in modern Britain

What the school should improve

• Leaders should continue to improve pupils’ attendance by ensuring that their attendance strategies lead to sustained improvements for identified individuals and groups.
• Leaders should continue their work to secure greater consistency in the quality of teaching by ensuring that teachers routinely provide appropriate challenge, deepen pupils’ understanding through effective questioning and implement support strategies for pupils with barriers to learning with greater precision.

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