Marine Academy Plymouth (MAP) in St Budeaux, part of the Ted Wragg Trust, has proudly achieved a 'Good' rating from Ofsted following an inspection in April. This remarkable improvement reflects years of dedicated effort, transforming the school from an 'Inadequate' rating in November 2016 to 'Good' in all areas, including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and Sixth Form provision. This achievement is a testament to the unwavering commitment of the entire MAP community.

In the report, published today, Ofsted inspectors noted that MAP students have responded positively to the raised expectations for how they behave and what they can achieve, concluding that they are proud to be part of the school community.  They also stated that a strong focus on good manners, respect and empathy for others means the school is calm and welcoming and that students have high aspirations for what they can achieve at school and in the future.

Other comments from Ofsted included:

• Pupils behave well and work hard; they show pride in their work and what they have achieved.
• Pupils feel safe and well supported at school, staff help them when they are experiencing difficulties and consequently, pupils can focus on their learning.
• The school provides many opportunities for pupils to develop their characters, talents and interests, pupils value these experiences as part of their education.

The school’s ambitious curriculum was singled out for praise with inspectors noting that the curriculum is designed well and is logically sequenced; content builds on what pupils know and can do, as a result, pupils produce high quality work.

At the heart of MAP is a strong focus on improving the life chances of its students. The school has a strong focus on careers, and students learn about the education pathways, apprenticeships and careers that are open to them after school.  Record numbers of students from MAP went on to study at University this year - including nearly 50% of students from disadvantaged backgrounds.  Ofsted reflected this in their report commenting that the proportion of sixth form students who go on to university , including the most academically selective, has vastly increased.

Leigh Withers, Principal of Marine Academy Plymouth said:

Marine Academy Plymouth has been on an incredible journey of improvement, and I am pleased that Ofsted inspectors have recognized the hard work of everyone involved. At MAP, our goal is to create a calm and supportive learning environment where everyone can learn to the best of their ability. It was wonderful to read Ofsted’s comments highlighting how we inspire our students to envision their futures. Aspiration is one of our core values, and I want every child to leave MAP with both a dream and a plan for achieving it!”

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Multi-Academy Trust said:

“This report truly reflects the incredible dedication and hard work of the entire team at Marine Academy Plymouth over several years. I couldn’t be prouder of this amazing school and its vibrant community. I look forward to watching it go from strength to strength. Leigh and the whole MAP team should take immense pride in the high standards they’ve established, which are positively transforming the lives of students.

“It was also heartening to see that Ofsted recognised the impact expertise from the trust has had in enhancing the curriculum, improving student attendance, and easing staff workloads. Together, we are making a real difference. Congratulations to the students, staff and wider community of Marine Academy Plymouth. We are so proud of you all”