Pupils make 'excellent progress' at Leeds academy praised for its strong standards - Ofsted report

Leaders at an academy in Leeds where pupils make “excellent progress” are celebrating after a successful Ofsted inspection.

Cockburn John Charles Academy, located on Old Run Road, Belle Isle, received a ‘Strong standard’ rating in all six categories during a June 2026 inspection.

Under Ofsted’s new scoring system, one-word grades have been replaced with a colour-coded “traffic light” report card, split into six sub-categories: achievement, attendance and behaviour, curriculum and teaching, inclusion, and leadership and governance, personal development and wellbeing.

The school was previously rated as Good under the old grading system during a 2022 inspection.

“Pupils make excellent progress from typically low starting points, particularly those who are disadvantaged,” the education watchdog said. “This is reflected in published 'progress 8' measures. A large number of pupils enter the school with prior achievement that is lower than national averages.

“Leaders have devised a curriculum that is tailored to the context of the local area and the needs of the pupils in the school. Staff have an in-depth knowledge of the curriculum. They make astute decisions about how to adapt the curriculum based on what pupils have learned previously, or their starting points.”

All pupils, no matter what their background, are welcome at Cockburn John Charles, according to the report. In addition to having a high number of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities and a high number of pupils eligible for the pupil premium funding, there are high a number of pupils with English as an additional language (EAL).

Pupils’ behaviour was recognised as “excellent” across the school. Pupils display “kindness and courtesy” to each other and to the adults in the building. They hold doors open and ask people how their day is going. Older pupils act as role models.

Inspectors praised the school's approach to attendance, recognising the robust and evidence-informed strategy led by leaders. Through "personalised and compassionate" support, the school has achieved a sustained reduction in persistent absence.

The school’s leadership and governance was also praised, with leaders demonstrating a clear understanding of the school's strengths and priorities and a relentless commitment to improving outcomes for all pupils.

“Leaders at all levels care deeply about the school, the pupils and the local community,” inspectors added. They are passionate about ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background or needs, has the opportunity to complete a ‘Transformation to Excellence’.

“All decisions taken are in the best interests of pupils. Leaders, including those responsible for governance, have a detailed and insightful knowledge of the school's context, strengths and areas for improvements.”

The school's personal development offer is a further strength, according to the report. Leaders have devised a programme that is “tailored to the needs of the pupils.”

Pupils have access to a wide range of clubs at lunchtime and after school to develop their talents and interests. These are very well attended by pupils.

Focusing on areas of further improvement, leaders are advised to continue their “relentless drive” to improve attendance.

Headteacher, Mrs Siobhan Roberts, said: “The Cockburn John Charles Academy community is incredibly proud of the feedback received from Ofsted. This outcome reflects the collective dedication of our staff, pupils and families in creating a school where inclusivity, ambition and care are at the heart of everything we do.

“We are particularly pleased that the report recognises the strong progress our pupils make from their starting points and the positive culture that exists across the academy. We remain fully committed to continuing our journey towards excellence, with a clear focus on further improving attendance.”