Academy leaders ‘thrilled’ after Sunderland school judged to be good following latest Ofsted inspection

Inspectors highlighted that children “enjoy coming to school” and are “engaged in their learning” and praised students for their sensible behaviour and respectful attitude.

The report also identified the “high aspirations” staff have for all pupils and the calm and positive learning environment in the school.

Lead inspector David Milligan commended the school on its curriculum which was “designed to ensure pupils learn the right knowledge at the right

time”.

He added: “The sequence and ordering of the curriculum helps pupils to remember and apply what they have been taught. Teachers provide daily opportunities for pupils to reflect on what they have previously studied.

"The combination of a carefully planned curriculum and opportunities for pupils to revisit learning is ensuring pupils achieve well.”

After being informed of the judgement, head teacher Fiona Hoare, said: “I am delighted with the outcome of our recent Ofsted inspection, which is testament to the hard work of staff who consistently offer pupils an excellent education.

"I’m proud that our efforts to enhance teaching and learning across all aspects of the curriculum and extra-curricular activities have been recognised and I’m delighted to be leading our wonderful community school into a bright future with very strong foundations.”

The report also praised the provision for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Mr Milligan said: “Pupils with SEND achieve well. The special educational needs coordinator gathers information from pupils, parents and external agencies and then works in partnership with teachers. This means teachers can then adapt the curriculum appropriately so that pupils can access content appropriate to their needs.”

Praise was also given for the curriculum enrichment experiences afforded to children including visits to High Force, Beamish Museum and Nissan.

Deputy Chief Executive of the North East Learning Trust and Executive Headteacher at Diamond Hall Junior Academy, Dr Janice Gorlach, added: “Diamond Hall Junior Academy completely lives up to our Trust vision and offers children an excellent education every day. We have worked tirelessly over the past few years to enhance the school environment, which is a fantastic place to learn and where ongoing dedication and care makes Diamond Hall a place where children flourish.

"We are thrilled with the Ofsted result and pleased that children are so happy coming to school here.”

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Chair of governors, Diane Buckle, added: “The report demonstrates that pupils have been experiencing a consistent level of high-quality teaching and school life and I am excited to see what the future holds for Diamond Hall. Well done to staff, pupils, their families and governors for making the school what it is.”

During the inspection, inspectors also got the chance to see for themselves the recently upgraded outdoor facilities including a new £124,000 adventure playground which was recently opened by Sunderland MP Julie Elliot.

While the report identified reading had been made a “priority” at the school, one target for development is to improve the opportunities available for pupils to improve their oracy by “embedding targeted activities” into the curriculum.