Cloudside Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 10 March 2026

Pupils are proud to be part of Cloudside Academy. They are safe and well cared for at this inclusive school. They feel valued and develop a strong sense of belonging. Pupils speak highly of their school. They recognise the work of staff to enable pupils to enjoy school and achieve well. One pupil articulated the view of many that teachers do everything they can to help them learn and grow by proudly explaining to inspectors how the school has helped him ‘to become the best version’ of himself. Most pupils attend school well. This means they access the full curriculum. Pupils work hard in lessons and take pride in their work. They benefit from effective teaching and a well-designed curriculum that is bespoke to their needs. Pupils demonstrate positive attitudes towards their learning and typically achieve well. Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, disadvantaged pupils and those who face other barriers are skilfully supported to access learning. They achieve well from their starting points. Pupils appreciate the wide range of opportunities the school provides. These are designed to broaden pupils’ horizons and give them opportunities they might otherwise not have, such as taking part in a music festival or leading charity events. Pupils’ experiences of new things in school help develop their self-confidence. They are proud of their ‘pupil passports’. These serve as a tangible record of their experiences and achievements. Pupils who face barriers to their learning and/or wellbeing access opportunities beyond the curriculum fully. Pupils develop a growing understanding of the fundamental British values. They recognise that it is wrong to discriminate against others. Pupils show respect for others. For example, when sharing their ideas in class, pupils show genuine interest in what their peers have to say. They consider and respect views different to their own. Pupils are typically well prepared for life in modern Britain.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should build on existing good practice in teaching. They should further develop and refine teachers’ expertise so they consistently make informed and precise pedagogical choices to secure the best outcomes for pupils.
• Leaders should continue their work to ensure that all pupils understand how to consistently make positive behaviour choices without being reminded of these.

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