Thomas Middlecott Academy in Kirton has shown notable improvements in several key areas, according to a new Ofsted report following a full inspection on 17 and 18 June 2025. The school, part of the David Ross Education Trust (DRET), was rated “Requires Improvement” overall for the quality of education, but was praised for its leadership, personal development, and behaviour, all of which were rated Good.
The report highlights a school on the rise, with a calm and supportive environment, committed staff, and students who feel safe and valued. Pupils benefit from strong pastoral care, and staff are commended for their ability to build trusting relationships, particularly in helping students manage their emotions and behaviour. Morning routines, including a well-attended breakfast club, are also said to be contributing to improved punctuality and readiness to learn.
Principal Lisa Hawkins, who took on the leadership role in late 2023, has been recognised for stabilising the school during a period of staffing challenges. Ofsted inspectors noted that the teaching team is now more settled and has received high-quality training from the trust. This has helped to boost staff morale and raise teaching standards in many areas.
However, the report makes clear that inconsistencies remain in how well the curriculum is delivered across subjects. While some departments, such as English, are delivering strong and structured lessons, others lack the same level of coherence and oversight. As a result, not all students are achieving as well as they could, and gaps in learning are sometimes left unaddressed.
The school’s ambitious curriculum is praised, as is its commitment to reading. The DRET Reads programme introduces pupils to a wide range of texts and supports reading fluency. However, inspectors found that the programme is not delivered consistently across the school, meaning some pupils are not receiving the full benefit. Improving the quality and consistency of this initiative remains a key priority.
Students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are well-supported, with staff quick to identify and address their needs. The curriculum is adapted thoughtfully for these pupils, and outcomes are improving as a result.
Behaviour and attitudes have markedly improved, with the school’s new approach to behaviour management seen as a success. Disruption in lessons is now rare, and pupils reported feeling safe and respected. The school’s on-site alternative provision is also making a positive difference for those who need additional support.
Attendance has also improved, thanks to the school’s targeted work with families. However, some vulnerable and disadvantaged pupils still do not attend regularly enough, impacting their progress. The school and trust have pledged to continue addressing this issue.
Beyond the classroom, the school offers a wide range of enrichment opportunities. Pupils spoke highly of the extra-curricular programme, including sporting competitions across the DRET network, educational trips, and opportunities to develop leadership through roles such as ‘curriculum ambassadors’ and ‘change makers’. These experiences, inspectors said, contribute positively to pupils’ personal development and sense of pride in their school community.
Leadership and management were praised for providing clear direction and for creating a culture where staff feel supported and valued. Inspectors highlighted the trust’s effective governance and the internal support offered to the school’s leadership team.
The report concludes that Thomas Middlecott Academy is moving in the right direction, but continued effort is needed to ensure consistency in teaching, improve attendance further, and embed the reading programme across the school. With strong leadership, committed staff, and an improving culture, the foundations are in place for the school to continue its upward trajectory.
