“Pupils, their parents and carers, and staff are rightly proud of this remarkable school”

Northern Education Trust is delighted to announce that Merlin Top Academy has been judged by Ofsted to be an Outstanding school, following its inspection on 9 and 10 October 2024. The academy was first judged to be outstanding in March 2019 and Ofsted have confirmed that Merlin Top have taken effective action to maintain the same standards. This Outstanding rating could not have been achieved without the relentless hard work, commitment and determination from senior leaders, staff in the academy and the wider Trust, the students and the support of Trustees and governors.

The school is determined to help every pupil reach their potential
Pupils understand that the school, and all of the staff, want them to be the best they can be. The staff and leaders work together to encourage each child to embrace their strengths. To achieve this, Merlin Top delivers a combination of nurturing care and opportunities for success. Ofsted recognised the ethos of kindness, belonging and safety which runs through the school.

The school places equal importance on pupils’ academic success and their character development
Ofsted recognised that children who attend Merlin Top achieve well: “Many of their achievements are truly remarkable, especially for those from disadvantaged backgrounds, who achieve well. This is testament to the tailored support that many pupils receive.” Merlin Top recognises that some children need extra support to thrive. Children with special educational needs and/or disabilities receive thoughtfully planned out support to ensure they achieve their best possible outcomes.

Children who attend Merlin Top could confidently speak about being a ‘Merlin Topper’ and how they recognise their responsibility in helping others. Leaders carefully pick opportunities which develop the whole child. Whether it be, “learning the importance of teamwork at forest school to serving tea and cakes to elderly people at the Good Shepherd Centre, pupils develop essential life skills and build connections within their community. Such experiences enrich their understanding of the world, nurturing empathy and a sense of social responsibility.”

Neil Cooper, Principal said “I am over the moon that Ofsted have recognised the incredible efforts that all stakeholders make on a daily basis. Our Outstanding rating is a true testament to the hard work of our talented and dedicated staff, students, trustees and governors who have made this possible. We have high aspirations for every single one of our students. I am so pleased that Ofsted have recognised a culture of kindness, inclusivity and support at Merlin Top, and the high quality of education we provide. We will continue to make choices to benefit all children with the aim to improve life chances.”

If you would like to visit this outstanding school, Merlin Top are holding an open morning on Wednesday 11 December 2024 and are happy to invite any prospective parents to join them from 09:00 – 10:30. Please contact the school for further details.