V.A.S.E Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 24 February 2026

Pupils typically arrive at V.A.S.E. academy with a very fractured experience of education, and gaps in their learning. The school takes considerable time to understand each pupil deeply, and to identify and meet their needs. As one pupil, whose comment was typical of many, stated, 'The school really gets to know you.' This all means the school is a harmonious place, where adults model positive relationships. Pupils respect each other and difference is celebrated. As pupils feel understood and known, they are happy. Pupils learn well because the curriculum is well designed and taught. Teachers and additional adults understand the pupils and how to support them effectively. This helps them to be in a good position to achieve well. Pupils and students appreciate the many opportunities which the school provides. These include extensive work-related learning experiences for pupils and students in the sixth form. Pupils also appreciate the trips and visits which the school organises because these help them to develop their confidence and independence. Pupils especially enjoy the new cookery rooms which the school has installed. These enable them to practise cooking and help them to develop key skills to thrive and live independently.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should continue to develop the consistency of approaches to check pupils' understanding and adapt the learning tasks appropriately to address gaps in pupils' knowledge.
• Leaders should further embed their attendance strategies, including their engagement with parents and carers so that their actions lead to continued sustained increases in attendance.

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