Ofsted says more needs to be done despite progress at Ipswich School where teachers were 'threatened' by pupils
The education watchdog says improvements have been noted, but challenges such as low attendance and poor pupil behaviour persist
Last updated 30th Apr 2026
Despite progress at Westbourne Academy in Ipswich, Ofsted has made it clear that more work is required to address ongoing issues.
Last May, teachers at Westbourne Academy took strike action over disruptive pupil behaviour that they claimed seriously affected teaching conditions.
NASUWT members protested against "unchecked classroom disruptions" by pupils who the claimed were refusing to attend lessons and instead roamed the school, causing chaos and threats to staff and peers.
At the time, A spokesperson for Academy Transformation Trust said: “We care deeply about the wellbeing of our staff and pupils, and we fully recognise the challenges that exist at Westbourne Academy. That’s why improving pupil behaviour is our top priority.
Following last year's inspection, which placed the school under special measures due to behaviour, attendance, and support concerns, the latest report acknowledges improvements while pointing out persistent challenges.
Issues Identified
In the inspection report from June 2025, Ofsted noted significant disruptions due to poor pupil conduct and derogatory language, leaving staff feeling unsupported. Issues surrounding low attendance further impacted student learning and personal development.
The latest monitoring inspection, conducted in March 2026, shows progress, particularly in behaviour management. New policies, including consistent mobile phone rules, have contributed to a calmer environment. However, Ofsted emphasises, “The impact of leaders’ actions is not yet evident in terms of improvements in pupils’ achievement.”
Attendance rates are improving, especially for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), yet remain below the national average. The report highlights that "Leaders know they need to support pupils further to remove the barriers they face to school attendance."
While improvements in SEND support systems are noted, inconsistencies in classroom application persist. Ofsted points out, “There is still work to do to ensure that all staff use the information they receive about pupils with SEND and how to meet their needs, consistently well.”
Efforts to boost early-stage reading include a dedicated reading 'village,' but staff need further training to support students new to English effectively.
Supported by the Academy Transformation Trust, an academy improvement board has been established to drive change. New leadership roles, such as a vice principal focusing on behaviour, are positively impacting the school's progress.
Despite fewer incidents of derogatory language and discriminatory attitudes, Ofsted asserts that "staff do not consistently address this." Hence, while strides have been made, the report calls for continued efforts to fully resolve the school’s challenges.
Commenting on the inspection, Principal Martin Higgon said:
“We are pleased that Ofsted has recognised the significant progress we have made in a relatively short period of time. The report reflects the hard work and commitment of our staff, pupils and families, as well as the strong support from our trust and academy improvement board.
We know there is more to do, which is why this term we are focusing on strengthening staff wellbeing, raising student attendance, building on the gains we have made in behaviour, and improving quality first teaching. We are dedicated to delivering the excellent education our community deserves.”
"Westbourne Academy remains committed to sustained improvement and is continuing to work closely with its trust, staff and governors to address the remaining priorities identified by Ofsted and secure long‑term success for all pupils".