I am pleased to share our recent Ofsted report with you, following an inspection in September 2026.

As you may know, schools are now graded across a five-point scale and 'expected standard' is the benchmark for high-performing schools doing everything they should. I am delighted to let you know that West Blatchington exceeded this high standard in areas including our early years provision, inclusion and personal development and wellbeing, which were all rated ‘strong’.

We also reached the expected standard in achievement, attendance and behaviour, curriculum and teaching and leadership and governance. Importantly, safeguarding standards were also met, meaning that any concerns are actively identified, acted upon and managed.

Among many highlights in the report, I am particularly encouraged by how highly school parents spoke of our school and my colleagues. Inspectors noted that parents highlighted staff as being caring and dedicated, and parents said that West Blatchington is a “welcoming multicultural community where everyone can shine”. We are delighted that your views reflect our collective efforts to make sure everyone is included and supported to thrive at West Blatchington, and I want to thank you for your unwavering support.

Inspectors also reported that West Blatchington is a “joyful and caring school where pupils are proud to shine” and highlighted that “the school finds the best in everyone”. The inclusive culture at our school clearly shone through, with inspectors stating that:

“The school places inclusion at the heart of its work and has established a highly effective and cohesive approach to meeting the needs of disadvantaged pupils and those pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities.”

Pupils have also been praised for behaving well, with positive behaviour “from the classroom to the playground”, and Ofsted also mentioned that pupils have no worries about bullying.

I hope you will read the report in full, however I have summarised some of the key points here:

• Staff were recognised for their skilful adaptations, which enhance pupils’ learning by helping them to overcome barriers and challenges to make effective progress. 
• Attendance has improved impressively as a result of diligent and effective work by leaders and staff.
• The school has developed an ambitious and well-sequenced curriculum that enables pupils to build knowledge and skills progressively over time.
• Pupils generally achieve well, despite attainment being slightly lower than national averages in published tests.
• Pastoral care is highly impactful. Pupils become mental health champions, helping others to enrich their emotional wellbeing.
• Pupils are thrilled to learn and perform music, represent the school in sports events and take on challenges during the residential activity trip. Leaders work tirelessly to ensure that nobody misses out.
• Parents and carers value the school's open communication, supportive approach and commitment to understanding their children's individual needs.
• Leaders, governors and trustees share a strong commitment to continuous improvement and equality of opportunity.
• Leaders manage workload effectively and promote staff wellbeing successfully. As a result, morale remains high across this happy and caring school community.

We look forward to building on this progress together with you, our pupils, and the support of The Pioneer Academy.