A CRADLEY HEATH secondary school is celebrating being rated 'Good' by Ofsted.

Ormiston Forge Academy was visited by inspectors, who have just published their findings, in October.

It has kept its 'Good' rating, which it also achieved in 2016 - after being rated 'requires improvement' back in 2013.

Inspectors said the Wrights Lane school, which has a sixth form, is 'a very caring school' and students 'feel happy and safe'.

The report also stated 'leaders are ambitious for every pupil and work hard to give them the best possible opportunity' and teachers set 'high expectations' for students.

Principal Dr Lisa Mason, said she was "delighted."

She said: "This report is a real testament to our students, staff and our community who have all worked together to make the Forge family and our academy a success.

"They deserve the best and we'll be relentless in sustaining these high standards and pushing on to the next level, as we work towards becoming an outstanding academy."

The report, published on Tuesday (December 3) highlighted that teachers 'plan well to get the most out of lessons'.

Inspectors also commented on how the academy's success centre helps students who need additional support.

Progress among sixth form students was attributed to well-planned lessons and 'pupils working with increasing levels of independence'.

Sixth form students were also praised for playing a significant part in academy life and helping younger students.

Ofsted also noted that sixth-formers at the over-subscribed school, which has 1,580 pupils aged 11 to 18, were given good advice 'to help them make the right decisions about further education and career choices'.

The report however notes that GCSE results in mathematics and languages have not been as strong as in other subjects in recent years.

It states: "Leaders have worked hard to redesign these curriculum areas and ensure that they are well taught.

"They must now ensure that these developments continue to lift standards higher."

Inspectors recognised the positive role of the Academy’s sponsor Ormiston Academies Trust (OAT) and governors. 

Nick Hudson, Chief Executive Officer at Ormiston Academies Trust, said: "We are so pleased that the continued excellence and high quality of education at Ormiston Forge Academy has been confirmed by Ofsted and I would like to congratulate everyone involved.

"We look forward to continuing to support the academy as it pushes to achieve even greater heights."