Leigh Academy Mascalls

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 28 April 2026

Leigh Academy Mascalls is a welcoming and friendly school where pupils feel a sense of belonging and pride. Pupils know staff want the very best for them and appreciate the balance of support and challenge. The school fosters a sense of community effectively through its small-colleges approach. Pupils feel safe because they trust staff to help them succeed. Over the past few years, a significant proportion of pupils joined the school part way through their education after a local school closed. Staff gave these pupils an inclusive welcome, helping them settle successfully into school life. These pupils are now fully integrated into the school. They attend regularly and achieve well. Pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities and those who are disadvantaged, generally achieve well. Published outcomes reflect this, sitting close to national averages. Staff quickly identify pupils who have additional barriers to learning and give them appropriate help to succeed. Supportive strategies such as additional literacy lessons, enable pupils to access learning successfully. Pupils work hard and persevere, rising to the challenges of the ambitious and interesting curriculum. Teaching in the sixth form is particularly effective. Students succeed very well, articulating their learning with confidence and fluency. Most progress to ambitious destinations such as higher education, training pathways, or employment. Due to the school’s hard work, pupils’ attendance is improving, particularly for disadvantaged pupils. Staff provide targeted help effectively, supporting pupils to overcome barriers to engaging with school. Pupils are polite and respectful towards their peers and staff. Any bullying is dealt with quickly and effectively. Pupils understand the importance of being good citizens and recognise their role in making the school a positive place for everyone to enjoy. Pupils are creative, enjoying annual music festivals and opportunities to take part in impressive drama and dance productions.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that teachers use assessment information effectively to identify and address gaps, errors and misconceptions in pupils' knowledge.
• Leaders should continue to raise the achievement of pupils, so that they acquire the detailed and ambitious knowledge they need for future success.

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