Ofsted praises SWB’s exemplary behaviour and culture of high ambition
Ormiston SWB Academy, in Bilston and part of Ormiston Academies Trust, has been praised by Ofsted for its exemplary behaviour, improving attendance and high expectations for pupils.
This was the school’s first inspection under Ofsted’s new national framework, which no longer issues a single overall grade. Instead, schools receive a detailed report card with separate judgements across key areas of school life, offering parents and carers a more balanced picture of a school’s strengths and priorities.
The new framework is deliberately more ambitious, with higher expectations set for schools across all areas. As a result, meeting the expected standard reflects a stronger benchmark than under previous inspection arrangements.
Following its full inspection in April 2026, Ofsted judged Ormiston SWB Academy to be at a strong standard for attendance and behaviour. The academy was also found to be meeting the expected standard in achievement, curriculum and teaching, inclusion, leadership and governance, personal development and wellbeing, and post-16 provision.
Inspectors recognised the positive culture across the academy, noting that “pupils flourish in this vibrant school” and that “high aspirations and high ambition are woven into the school’s fabric.”
The report particularly praises pupils’ behaviour and attitudes to learning, highlighting the respectful relationships across the academy and the strong support pupils receive from staff. Inspectors also recognised the academy’s work to improve attendance, support pupils with additional needs and provide a wide range of opportunities through its CORE (character, opportunity, resilience and excellence) curriculum.
Other highlights from the report include:
- “Pupils’ behaviour in lessons and around the school is exemplary.”
- “They treat each other, and adults, with courtesy and respect.”
- “Pupils have excellent attitudes to learning.”
- “Pupils receive exceptional care and support from adults in the school.”
- “Pupils, including those who are disadvantaged and those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), progress well across the curriculum.”
- “Leaders have created a highly inclusive culture in the school.”
- “Pupils receive excellent pastoral support.”
- “Pupils are very well prepared for their next steps.”
While the report identifies areas for further development, including continuing to refine teaching and assessment so that all pupils deepen their knowledge and understanding, inspectors recognised the clear improvements being made across the academy.
Daniel Mason, Principal at Ormiston SWB Academy, said:
“We are delighted that Ofsted has recognised the exemplary behaviour, high aspirations and strong culture across Ormiston SWB Academy. This report reflects the hard work of our staff, students and families, and the ambition we share for every young person to flourish and succeed. We are particularly pleased that inspectors recognised the improvements being made in attendance, behaviour and achievement, as well as the care and support pupils receive every day.
“We are proud of this positive report and remain focused on building on these strengths so that all students continue to achieve well and leave us fully prepared for their next steps.”
Rod Hughes, Education Director for the West at Ormiston Academies Trust, added:
“Ormiston SWB Academy is a school with high ambition for its students, and this report recognises the strength of its culture, behaviour and support. As a Trust, we will continue to work closely with the academy as it builds on these foundations and continues to improve outcomes for every student.”
