Leigh Academies Trust is delighted to share the news that Leigh Academy Dartford has been judged Outstanding in all areas following its Ofsted inspection on 17 and 18 June 2025. The inspection report highlights the academy’s exceptionally high standards in teaching, leadership, personal development and behaviour, describing a school where pupils thrive and flourish.
The report celebrates the academy’s bold vision and the impact of its curriculum, stating:
“The school is unequivocally ambitious for pupils to thrive and excel.”https://lat.sharepoint.com/sites/Spotlight
Principal, Rebecca Roberts, welcomed the outcome:
“We are proud that inspectors recognised the high-quality education we provide and the positive culture that runs through every part of our school. This judgement reflects the tireless work of our staff, the support of our families and the determination of our pupils to make every moment count. Ofsted’s recognition coupled with SATS results which place us in the top 1% of the country showcase our values of being Determined, persistent, achievers- learning to change the world – it is an honour to work with this community”
The academy’s early years provision received specific praise, with inspectors stating:
“Children make a flying start as soon as they join the school.” The report goes on to note that children quickly form positive relationships, engage in exciting learning and begin to build a secure foundation in reading, writing and mathematics.
Inspectors were equally impressed by the school’s wider curriculum, “The school has developed an exceptionally ambitious curriculum.” Learning is carefully sequenced from Nursery through to Year 6, and teachers skilfully help pupils make connections across subjects. Pupils’ outcomes in reading, writing and mathematics are significantly above national averages.
The approach to inclusion was described as thoughtful and effective, with the report highlighting the school’s ‘Invisible Inclusion’ ethos. Pupils with special educational needs and those who speak English as an additional language receive highly effective support to engage fully in learning and school life.
The personal development of pupils was described as a standout strength of the school: “An outstanding approach to pupil personal development fulfils the school’s aim for pupils to be ‘secondary school ready’.” Pupils are taught to take responsibility, respect difference, and make a positive contribution to their community and the wider world.
Simon Beamish, CEO of Leigh Academies Trust, commented:
“This report is a clear endorsement of the remarkable work happening every day at Leigh Academy Dartford. Rebecca Roberts and her team have created a school culture that combines high expectations with care and support. The result is an exceptional learning environment where pupils succeed academically and grow as confident, responsible young people.”
Inspectors concluded that staff are well supported and that leaders at every level are committed to continuous improvement. Governance and Trust oversight were also judged to be highly effective.
The report offers a powerful final judgement: “School decisions are well-informed, strategic and have strong impact.”