Mulberry Academy Hastings

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 13 January 2026

Pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) or who are disadvantaged, appreciate the improvements in the school in recent years. Pupils benefit from strong relationships with caring and committed staff, which ensure they are known and celebrated as individuals. Pastoral support is closely matched to pupils' needs. As a result, pupils feel safe and well cared for. When concerns arise, for example, relating to bullying or discriminatory behaviour, they trust staff to resolve them quickly. Pupils learn the importance of respecting difference and promoting equality. This helps them to develop a strong sense of belonging. Leaders and staff have made significant improvements to the school's culture and ethos since the last inspection. Consequently, most pupils behave well. In lessons, they typically work with focus and purpose so that classrooms are calm and orderly. This creates an environment that supports successful learning. Pupils attend more regularly than in the past. Those who find regular attendance more difficult are successfully supported. Historically, pupils have not achieved well. Leaders have raised expectations for pupils' academic success. For example, they have strengthened teaching and provided clearer guidance for staff. These actions are having a positive impact on pupils' learning. Pupils recognise that their school is now a better place to learn. However, there remain some inconsistencies in how effectively the curriculum is adapted to meet pupils' needs. Pupils benefit from a wide range of opportunities that broaden their horizons. Pupils with SEND and those who face other barriers to learning are fully included in school life. They participate alongside their peers in a variety of extra-curricular activities, such as chess, volleyball and book club. Pupils are proud of the responsibilities they take on, including roles on the school council or as peer mentors. A culture of care and teamwork is evident across the school. Pupils are well prepared for life in modern Britain.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should use their robust oversight and analysis to ensure that strategies to improve pupils' learning and achievement are embedded and lead to swift further improvements where needed.
• Leaders should ensure that teachers use ongoing checks on pupils' learning consistently well to adapt the curriculum to meet pupils' specific needs, so that they overcome barriers to learning.

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