Westgate Hill Primary Academy recognised as ‘Exceptional’ for Inclusion by Ofsted

Westgate Hill Primary Academy, part of Laidlaw Schools Trust, is celebrating after being awarded an ‘Exceptional’ judgement for Inclusion following its recent Ofsted inspection.

The recognition places the Academy among only a small number of schools nationally to achieve the highest judgement for Inclusion under Ofsted’s new toolkit framework, recognising the Academy’s unwavering commitment to ensuring every member of its community feels valued, supported and able to thrive.

Located in the West End of Newcastle, Westgate Hill Primary Academy serves a richly diverse community, with pupils across the Academy speaking more than 50 different languages.

Inclusion is embedded throughout every aspect of Academy life, creating an environment where pupils, families, staff and the wider community feel welcomed, understood and empowered to succeed.

Inspectors praised the Academy’s inclusive culture and the way staff work collaboratively to remove barriers to learning and ensure pupils receive the support they need to succeed.

One pupil captured the Academy’s ethos perfectly during the inspection:

‘It does not matter what religion you are, or where you are from, what matters is how kind you are.’

The report also recognised the Academy’s strong relationships, ambitious curriculum and nurturing approach, highlighting the positive impact this has across the Academy community.

Through significant investment from the Laidlaw Foundation, the Academy has implemented a 1:1 digital device programme to help personalise learning and improve accessibility for pupils across the curriculum.

The technology supports a range of inclusive classroom practices, including tools that assist pupils with English as an additional language, helping children to access learning in ways that best meet their individual needs.

Headteachers Karl Ellerbrook and Nick Watson said:

“We are incredibly proud to receive this recognition for Inclusion. At Westgate Hill Primary Academy, we believe every member of our community deserves to feel seen, supported and inspired to achieve their very best.

 

“Our Academy community is wonderfully diverse and we see that as one of our greatest strengths. This judgement reflects the dedication of our staff, pupils, families and wider community who work together every day to create an environment where everyone can flourish.”

Sally Newton, CEO of Laidlaw Schools Trust, added:

“This is a fantastic achievement for Westgate Hill Primary Academy and a powerful reflection of the Academy’s values in action.

 

“Inclusion is not an initiative at Westgate Hill - it is part of the Academy’s identity. From curriculum design and pastoral care to innovative use of technology, the entire Academy community is committed to ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive.

 

“We are incredibly proud of the staff and pupils for this well-deserved recognition.”

The Academy continues to build on its strong reputation for delivering high-quality education and pastoral support, ensuring all pupils are equipped with the confidence, skills and opportunities to succeed.