We are incredibly proud to celebrate the publication of two highly positive Ofsted reports for Bailey Street Alternative Provision Academy and Chaselea Alternative Provision Academy.

These outcomes are a testament to the unwavering commitment, expertise and care shown by staff every single day—and to the resilience and potential of the young people they serve.

Alternative provision plays a vital role in education. For many pupils, these settings offer a fresh start: a chance to rebuild confidence, re-engage with learning and believe in themselves again. These latest inspections recognise the life-changing impact of that work.

Bailey Street: A Culture of Belonging and Growth

At Bailey Street, inspectors identified a strong standard across multiple areas, highlighting the school’s relentless focus on inclusion, behaviour and personal development.

What truly stands out in the report is the culture that has been built—one where pupils feel safe, supported and ready to learn. Inspectors noted that:

“Pupils enjoy their learning and take pride in what they achieve.”

For Headteacher Sonia Lockett, this recognition reflects years of dedication:

She shared her delight in the report, describing it as “a milestone that reflects the incredible dedication, passion and resilience of the staff at Bailey Street.”

Many pupils arrive having experienced disruption or exclusion. At Bailey Street, they are met with warmth, structure and belief. Strong relationships sit at the heart of the school, enabling pupils to settle quickly, engage in learning and make meaningful progress.

The report highlights how leaders have created a safe and purposeful environment where behaviour improves, attendance rises and pupils begin to flourish.

Sonia’s message is clear: this is just the beginning. With a continued focus on improvement, Bailey Street is determined to ensure every pupil leaves confident, successful and ready for their future.

Chaselea: A Very Special School Where Pupils Thrive

Chaselea’s Ofsted report also reflects a strong standard across key areas, including achievement, behaviour, inclusion and leadership.

Inspectors captured the essence of the school in one powerful sentence:

“A very special school where pupils thrive.”

For Headteacher Paul Archer, this recognition means everything—not because of the accolade itself, but because it reflects what the school stands for.

Chaselea supports pupils who often arrive after difficult experiences in education or home life. The report highlights the school’s success in rebuilding trust and relationships:

“Pupils develop strong and trusted relationships with staff… they know that staff care genuinely for them.”

This foundation of care is what enables transformation. Inspectors noted that pupils frequently go on to exceed their own expectations, making impressive progress from their starting points.

Paul captured this beautifully in his reflections, emphasising that success is not about systems or policies—it is about people. Staff bring patience, humour, resilience and compassion every day, helping young people to feel safe, understood and capable of success.

The Power of Alternative Provision

Across both schools, a consistent picture emerges:

• Pupils arrive with disrupted education and significant barriers
• Staff take time to understand each individual’s needs
• Relationships are prioritised above all else
• Confidence is rebuilt—and outcomes follow

Inspection findings show that pupils in both settings make strong progress, improve their attendance and behaviour, and move on to positive destinations such as further education, training or employment.

But beyond the data, the real success is personal.

It is seen in the pupil who begins to enjoy learning again.
In the young person who feels safe for the first time in school.
In the moment someone realises they are capable of more than they ever believed.

Looking Ahead

These reports are a cause for celebration—but they are also a platform for continued growth.

Both Bailey Street and Chaselea remain deeply committed to improving further, ensuring that every pupil—no matter their starting point—has the opportunity to succeed.

We are incredibly grateful to our dedicated staff teams, supportive families and the wider Manor Hall Academy Trust community. Through collaboration, belief and shared purpose, we are making a real and lasting difference.

Because, at its heart, this work is not about inspections or outcomes.

It is about young people—finding their place, rebuilding their confidence and shaping brighter futures.