Mary Elliot Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 24 February 2026

Mary Elliot is an inclusive, caring and welcoming school community. Positive relationships are part of what makes this school a special place to be. Staff welcome pupils each morning with a smile, which helps pupils to feel settled. Parents and carers recognise that this approach helps their children feel understood and safe. Over time, pupils develop a strong sense of belonging and develop their resilience. Every pupil communicates in their own unique way. For those who need it, staff use pictures, symbols and signing so pupils can share what they want, how they feel and what they need. This personalised support helps pupils take part in learning and express themselves. Learning is shaped around each pupil’s needs. Some pupils learn through sensory activities and movement. Others enjoy short tasks that build their early reading, number and communication skills. Some follow more structured learning, linked to managing everyday life tasks. Staff understand pupils well and plan activities that help them grow both academically and personally. Pupils achieve significant milestones both academically and socially. They develop their communication, increase their confidence and increasingly enjoy showing their learning to staff and friends. Those who are ready to read make gradual progress. Others begin to apply number skills in real-life situations using real money. Older pupils talk proudly about their future goals and want to do jobs that are linked to their interests. Pupils enjoy a wide range of experiences that celebrate their individuality. Music, outdoor learning and sessions that support wellbeing are part of daily life. Pupils visit shops, cafés and community venues to build confidence in new places. Older pupils learn how to travel safely and take part in personal care sessions designed to help them become more independent. Pupils are happy at Mary Elliot and proud of what they achieve each day. Bullying is rare. Pupils know adults will help them if they are worried.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should continue to develop strategies to support pupils to feel calm, confident and ready to learn throughout the school day.
• Leaders should further strengthen the quality and range of employer encounters so that each pupil benefits from experiences that match their interests, ambitions and talents.
• Leaders should further develop their work to engage all parents and carers to enable them to support their children to realise their future ambitions.

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