From struggles to strength as Willenhall Academy rated 'Good'

Reflecting an incredible turnaround, Willenhall is now rated ‘Good’ in all four categories inspected by Ofsted - quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management.

In the glowing report, inspectors praised the school’s “ambitious curriculum”, “positive culture of success” and “unwavering determination to provide a high-quality education for all pupils”. Pupils were found to be “proud to be part of this school” and benefitting from a calm, respectful learning environment, strong relationships with staff and a wide range of opportunities beyond the classroom.

This ‘Good’ rating across the board marks a major milestone in Willenhall Academy’s journey of improvement. Led by headteacher Tim Marston, the school has undergone a complete transformation in recent years, moving from instability and poor outcomes to stability, consistency and rising achievement.

Inspectors noted that students enjoy their learning and show positive attitudes in lessons, supported by a school culture where attendance is improving and behaviour is consistently calm and purposeful.

The curriculum, described as ambitious and well designed, is helping pupils to thrive academically. Those with additional needs receive high-quality, individualised support, and the school’s inclusive ethos ensures that every student is given the tools and support to succeed.

Staff are well equipped, confident in their roles, and feel valued in a culture that genuinely cares for their wellbeing. This culture, and the school’s wider transformation, has been powerfully supported by E-ACT, whose leadership and investment have enabled the team to deliver the very best for Willenhall’s young people.

Mr Marston said: “This report means everything to our school community. It recognises the belief, hard work and relentless ambition of our students, staff and families. We’re incredibly proud of how far we’ve come, and even more excited about where we’re going.”

Alongside its Ofsted success, Willenhall Academy has also been awarded the prestigious Inclusion Quality Mark (IQM). The assessor praised the school’s inclusive ethos, strong leadership and high aspirations, recommending it for Centre of Excellence status. The report describes Willenhall as a beacon of “inclusive and aspirational education” and “a valued anchor institution in the community”.

Both reports recognise the school’s commitment to its core belief that “disadvantage should never define destiny” and its bold vision of Willenhall, then the world.

Mr Marston added: “We are deeply proud to be the school our community deserves – inclusive, ambitious, and focused on helping every child succeed. Willenhall is a vital part of this community, and we take that responsibility seriously.

“Every young person, no matter their background, deserves an exceptional education, and we’re determined to deliver just that. I want to thank our incredible team for their tireless dedication and belief in our vision. This achievement is down to them.”