Hewett Academy Celebrates Superb Ofsted Success

The Norwich-city-based secondary school, Hewett Academy is celebrating today having been rated Good with Outstanding features following an exemplary Ofsted inspection.  

Hewett Academy, which was founded in 1958 and joined Inspiration Trust in September 2015, was previously awarded a ‘Good’ rating in 2018. Ofsted commended the school’s dedication to the care and wellbeing of its students, commenting: 

“Pupils enjoy attending Hewett Academy. They are happy and cared for. Pupils know that there is always someone there to help them if they are feeling unhappy. Like an extended family, pupils take pride in each other’s successes and provide support to each other.” 

The academy, which has been named as one of the four Norfolk schools listed on the Department of Education’s School Rebuilding Programme, encourages its students to develop a thirst for knowledge and promotes a love for learning that is instilled in students throughout their lives. Ofsted states: 

“The school’s curriculum is ambitious. The knowledge pupils need to succeed in the future is set out clearly. [Pupils develop] an increasingly complex and deep understanding in all curriculum areas. Pupils learn to apply their knowledge to become creative problem solvers.” 

Ofsted continues: 

“Pupils behave well in school. This creates a calm and purposeful environment where all can thrive.” 

Hewett Academy is built on three core values: Respect, Aspiration, and Dedication. These values guide the actions and the decisions of both students and staff. Everyone respects each other, their peers, their environment, and their community. They seek out different ways to show that respect every day, from their Diversity Awareness group, to holding doors open for one another. Ofsted applauded this ethos, commenting that: 

“Pupils benefit from an exceptionally well-planned programme of activities and lessons that help them understand the role they have in society. As a result, pupils have a deep and meaningful awareness of diversity, equal opportunities and respect. They develop a strong sense of fairness. Pupils develop positive relationships with each other and adults. They celebrate difference and champion the benefits of a diverse community. There is no tolerance for unkindness, bullying rarely happens.” 

The secondary school works closely with the families of its students, Norwich Priority Area, and Norfolk County Council to ensure its provisions for students with Special Educational Needs are second to none. The school was recognised for its commitment to supporting pupils with SEND. Ofsted states:  

“The school accurately identifies what is needed to support pupils with SEND to achieve well. Well-considered adaptations help these pupils successfully progress alongside their peers. As a result, pupils with SEND are supported well to be able to access the same ambitious curriculum as others.” 

Hewett Academy ensures that every student leaves with the skills and knowledge to make informed and ambitious decisions about their future. As part of the Inspiration Trust, students of Hewett Academy have opportunities to pursue A-Level courses at two of the most prestigious sixth forms in Norfolk, Jane Austen College Sixth Form and Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form.  

Ofsted praised Hewett Academy’s dedication to preparing students for their next steps and beyond, commenting: 

“The personal social and health education (PSHE) and careers programmes are extremely well planned. They provide pupils with knowledge they need to make informed decisions. Pupils place great value on equality, respect and tolerance... developing into respectful, responsible citizens. They are well prepared for their next steps.” 

Hewett Academy has a strong commitment to the added value of learning outside the classroom and beyond the academy’s premises. The school seeks to provide a broad and balanced range of opportunities for all its students. Ofsted acknowledged this, saying: 

“The school ensures all pupils have access to an extensive ‘entitlement programme’. Pupils learn important skills that prepare them for adult life. From learning how to sew and repair clothes to life saving skills. Visits to art galleries and museums bring their academic learning to life.” 

Ofsted continues: 

“There is a large range of after school clubs and experiences. This offer goes beyond the traditional school offer such as learning an instrument. Pupils have the chance to learn about Japanese culture or programming Artificial Intelligence. Pupils value these opportunities and take advantage of them.” 

The popularity of the school amongst its staff was also commended, with Ofsted saying: 

“Staff are proud to work at the school. They share leaders’ ambition and vision for pupils. They are determined to make it a reality.” 

Inspiration Trust CEO, Gareth Stevens said:  

“Hewett Academy has gone from strength to strength, and I am so pleased that their hard work and dedication have been recognised. The school has community at its heart, creating an environment where every one of its students feels supported and included. I am particularly pleased that Ofsted has acknowledged this, saying “Like an extended family, pupils take pride in each other’s successes and provide support to each other.” - this encapsulates Hewett Academy at its core. We are incredibly proud of all that the school has achieved.” 

Hewett Academy’s Principal, Antony Little said: 

“Wow! We are absolutely delighted with this outcome. I’m grateful to our community of staff, parents, students, and alumni - collectively we strive to deliver the best education possible, with a built-in support network. We are committed to supporting our students to be confident in their own abilities and proud of their achievements, so they leave education prepared to reach their potential. We are so pleased that this report reflects the school that we see every single day. I am very proud to be Principal of Hewett Academy.” 

View the full report here