A SECONDARY school has been praised by Ofsted inspectors following a remote inspection during lockdown.

Oak Academy is said to be making huge leaps forward following a judgement of Requires Improvement at its last full inspection in November 2018.

The most recent inspection, carried out on March 2 this year, said effective action is being taken and said leaders and governors are making big improvements at the school, in Duck Lane, Kinson.

Inspector Tracey Reynolds said the leadership team has been reorganised and a new special needs co-ordinator has been appointed.

"Leaders are securing improvement, particularly in the curriculum and the personal development and careers programme.

"They have taken the right action to improve links between home and school, especially for those pupils who are vulnerable. This is a strength of the school."

The inspector also praised the way in which the school has operated during lockdown.

She said: "Leaders have invited pupils into school who find it difficult to learn at home.

"The school has effective systems to check the attendance, welfare and engagement of vulnerable children who are learning remotely."

Principal Richard Burgas said: "Iā€™m delighted that Ofsted has recognised the strength of our community relationships and the positive impact this has had to improve quality of education at Oak since the last inspection.

"The relentless energy, resilience and commitment of our staff have been matched by parents."

The school is part of the the Ambition Academies Trust and its Director of Secondary Education, Jon Webb said: "Recognised strong relationships and communication with its community, coupled with an intensive focus on raising standards, will ensure that Oak continues to strengthen the high-quality education that pupils receive."

Trust CEO Sian Thomas added: "It has been fantastic to see the school be recognised for the amazing work it is doing at this difficult time for everyone. The Trust are proud of everyone at Oak for the relentless pursuit they have for ensuring that their whole community is supported and provided with the best quality remote education.

"We are a close-knit community at Ambitions ā€“ leaders all work together to support each other. This approach ensures that all our schools can be successful. Well done to everyone at Oak."