Dear Parents and Carers
Following our Ofsted inspection on 15th September 2026, we are thrilled to share that the inspectors judged Workington Academy to be at the Strong Standard in four areas and the Expected Standard in three areas. The new Ofsted ratings is split into five sections, as detailed below:
The DfE’s definition of ‘Strong Standard’ is “excellent, consistent work that’s making a real difference for children and learners”, which inspectors found that we met in Attendance and behaviour, Inclusion, Leadership and governance and Personal development and wellbeing.
We also met the ‘expected standard’ in Achievement, Curriculum and teaching and Post-16 provision. The DfE defines this as “the school is doing everything that it should be doing. It’s a high standard, to make sure your children are receiving everything they need and deserve”.
The report, which we have attached to this email, is full of glowing comments about our school, and builds on the positive outcome of our previous inspection. It also reflects our continued commitment to providing the very best education and opportunities for every young person.
The report found that “pupils and students are proud to belong to this school community”, with many describing Workington Academy as “a family” and “a team”. Inspectors also recognised the positive relationships across the school, noting that the culture of support helps the academy to be a “place of safety and security”.
We were particularly pleased that inspectors highlighted our inclusive ethos and commitment to ensuring every young person can thrive. The report recognises that pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, are exceptionally well supported and that staff work hard to remove barriers that could affect learning and achievement.
Attendance, behaviour and personal development were all identified as key strengths. Inspectors praised the wide range of opportunities available to pupils beyond the classroom and found that pupils are “leaders and staff broaden pupils’ aspirations and prepare them extremely well for their future”.
The report also acknowledges the strength of leadership across the academy, along with the wider Cumbria Education Trust leaders, trustees and governors. Importantly, inspectors recognised that some of the successful approaches developed here are now being shared with schools both locally and nationally.
We are extremely proud of Workington Academy’s community, including you – our wonderful parent body. We are equally proud of our pupils for representing the school so well, and to our staff, governors and trustees for their hard work and continued dedication.
This report reflects the collective efforts of our whole school community and all that we have achieved together. Our focus moving forward is to continue raising our standards and providing the best educational experience for all of your children.
Thank you for your continued support.
Mark Bedford
Executive Headteacher
Barry Simpson
Head of School
Kerry Rourke
Chair of the LAB
